2012 NBA Lottery Order: Struggling Franchises in Position to Make 2013 Playoffs

Just once since 1993-94 have the Golden State Warriors made the NBA playoffs, but all that can change for the 2012-13 season.

The Warriors are a young team and are positioned well this draft season to make some noise next year. Interestingly enough, Golden State is not the only team to keep an eye on for the upcoming season as the draft will help other struggling franchises as well.

Here, we'll find out which teams can make a run at the 2013 playoffs along with the Warriors courtesy of the NBA lottery.

Cleveland Cavaliers

Last year the Cleveland Cavaliers held two top-five selections and went from a 19-63 record in 2009-2010 to a 21-45 record this past season. Now, obviously the NBA lockout significantly reduced the number of games played, but the Cavs increased their win percentage total by almost nine percent.

In a full season, that equates to roughly seven more wins, and it only adds more promise to the 2012-13 season.

Owners of another top-five selection, Cleveland can make big improvements by getting a No. 2 guard for Kyrie Irving or a transitional small forward who can contribute on the wing. Florida's Bradley Beal and Kentucky's Michael Kidd-Gilchrist are likely going to be their two best options as both can score, rebound and dish the rock elsewhere to open up the offense.

With Irving reliable at the point, and Tristan Thompson down low, the Cavs can't go wrong with their No. 4 pick and will have three top-five selections starting next season. Give all this potential young talent an offseason to build chemistry, and watch out for Cleveland in 2013.

Portland Trail Blazers

Of all the lottery teams, the Portland Trail Blazers are in arguably the best position make a run at the 2013 playoffs.

Last season, Portland finished just eight games out of the Western Conference's No. 8 seed—and were actually in the postseason race, but dropped their final seven games.

The good news is that the Blazers hold the No. 6 and No. 11 selections this draft, so some drastic upgrades will be made. There, Portland can enhance the frontcourt with Ohio State's Jared Sullinger to help the defense and rebounding on both ends.

At No. 11, a point guard such as Damien Lillard or Kendall Marshall will suffice to feed Sullinger, LaMarcus Aldridge and Wesley Matthews. The Blazers need to find the most complete and well-rounded players because they were mediocre at scoring and defending last season.

In a division where it's crucial to consistently score, Portland can gain a distinct competitive advantage by sprucing up the defense and getting more physical in the paint.

Golden State Warriors

The window of opportunity is gradually beginning to open for the Golden State Warriors in the Pacific Division.

The Phoenix Suns and Los Angeles Lakers are already aged, and the when comparing just the younger players, Golden State has the advantage. Already presenting a solid offense that will improve, the Warriors just need defense and rebounding to become legit.

Fortunately, Golden State has two first-round picks at No. 7 and No. 30 to address its needs. In the top 10, a number of prospects such as Harrison Barnes, John Henson and Perry Jones are feasible selections.

Barnes and Henson will certainly help the offense, but both can also rebounder and challenge shots. Jones has the most potential and suits well as his athleticism pays dividends in transition.

At the end of Round 1, the best available player is most likely, but by taking a defensive-minded prospect like Draymond Green, Golden State becomes a more complete team.