NBA Draft 2012: Who Should the Charlotte Bobcats Select Second Overall?

The Charlotte Bobcats drew the blueprints, and were ready for a new chapter to start in their franchise's history—"The Anthony Davis Era."

However, as the final logos were drawn out of the envelopes Wednesday night, they watched as their future plans crumbled before their eyes. Despite being the favorites to win the pick, the Bobcats sat in horror as the New Orleans Hornets were announced the winners of the 2012 Lottery.

The first selection is fairly obvious, as Anthony Davis seems to be the consensus No. 1 pick. However, from there the draft can go in many different directions. Both Thomas Robinson and Michael Kidd-Gilchrist seem suited to be taken second, but which route Charlotte goes is yet to be decided.

Thomas Robinson may seem like the second best prospect, but with Bismack Biyombo manning the power forward position, another big man may not be the answer. Neither Biyombo nor Robinson stands over 6'10'', and moving Biyombo to the 5 is not their strongest option.

The team truly lacks a dominant swingman, and adding one may be their best option. By adding a small forward to the mix, the team suddenly has a solid young core with Kemba Walker, Biyombo and their 2012 selection.

However, this poses another question: which small forward is the right choice for Charlotte?

Michael Kidd-Gilchrist is a solid player, and probably the stronger talent over other forwards in his draft class. While he doesn't make huge contributions to the statline, he can take over the game on the defensive end with his never-ending motor.

However, despite his defensive talents, Kidd-Gilchrist is not the answer for Charlotte. While he can be the perfect addition to a team who already has a star to dominate the offensive side of the game, Bobcats need the exact opposite.

The team needs someone to be the face of the franchise, and carry the team on the offensive end. While he might be second to Kidd-Gilchrist in terms of talent, Harrison Barnes is the much smarter option for Charlotte. His 17.4 points per game is far better than the Kentucky small forward, and can take over games in a much easier fashion.

Also, as a UNC alum himself, owner Michael Jordan may look to add a fellow Tar Heel to his roster.

Charlotte faced a large attendance problem last season. Even if the team does not become title contenders, adding a player from the hometown team would attract fans.

So as draft day nears, the Bobcats are faced with a tough choice: Kidd-Gilchrist or Barnes?

One provides instant offensive help while the other contributes in a different manner.

Or do they go the opposite route and take Robinson, pairing him up with Bismack Biyombo in the frontcourt. The Bobcats thought that their draft selection would be an easy one to make, but recent events have made it just the opposite.

Either way, let's hope whoever they select will help them win at least 10 games.