2012 NBA Mock Draft: How Will the Board Unfold After Anthony Davis?

Anthony RizzutiJun 5, 2018

The 2012 NBA draft is just hours away.

We already know Kentucky's super freshman Anthony Davis will be selected with the first overall pick of the draft. But how about the rest?

Who will the struggling Bobcats go with?

How many trades will there be?

Will an established NBA veteran find a new home with the rest of the draftees?

Well, with all the speculation soon coming to end, here's perhaps your last dosage of it.

Sit back, relax and enjoy this full two-round 2012 NBA mock complete with stats, pro comparisons and player analysis.

1. New Orleans Hornets: Anthony Davis, F, Kentucky

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2011-2012 stats: 14.3 PPG, 10.0 RPG, 0.9 APG, 4.7 BPG

Height-Weight: 6'10", 220 lbs

Position: PF

Pro Comparison: Kevin Garnett

As I just stated, Anthony Davis is the home run of the entire draft class. And why not?

Plain and simple, the one-browed wonder has all the physical attributes and flat-out skill NBA scouts drool over.

He possesses tremendous length, soft hands, great timing, incredible explosiveness and a ridiculous 7'4" wingspan.

The 2012 National Player of the Year also runs the floor very well, has good hops and never takes a play off. Although he didn't exactly light up the points section of the box score, Davis is easily one of the most efficient offensive players in recent history.

If he pans out, Davis will bring over his winning ways and transform an otherwise dull franchise into an up-and-coming one. Let's just hope he doesn't disappoint the league's front office and their "basketball reasons."

2. Charlotte Bobcats: Thomas Robinson, F, Kansas

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2011-2012 stats: 17.9 PPG, 11.8 RPG, 1.9 APG

Height-Weight: 6'10", 237 lbs

Position: PF

Pro Comparison: Derrick Williams

According to the Associated Press' Steve Reed, Charlotte will not trade the No. 2 overall selection unless the offer is "something enticing."

So if they do not reach a deal with Cleveland—which is looking more and more bleak by the minute—expect the Bobcats to go with Thomas Robinson.

Robinson had the second-best season of any player in collegiate ball. His size, quickness and strength helped him average a double-double as a junior. He has the ability to forcefully establish himself in the paint and play off his defender in the mid-range game.

Look for Robinson to be this year's version of Minnesota's Derrick Williams—an explosive offensive weapon with a decent jumper and a nice post game.

In an almost perfect world for the Bobcats, they would love to trade down to the No. 4 selection while dumping off Tyrus Thomas' fat salary. That way, they'd have the easy choice of whoever remains between Robinson and Harrison Barnes.

But as long as they have this pick, they should go the safer route in taking Robinson.

3. Washington Wizards: Bradley Beal, G, Florida

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2011-2012 stats: 14.6 PPG, 6.5 RPG, 2.2 APG

Height-Weight: 6'3", 207 lbs

Position: SG

Pro Comparison: Eric Gordon

After picking up potential starters in Trevor Ariza and Emeka Okafor, it's rather evident that the most glaring need for Washington's lineup is at 2-guard.

That's why Florida's Bradley Beal is an easy pick here.

Beal, a freshman, has quietly positioned himself among the top five players in the 2012 draft class. The guard moves nicely on the floor, possesses great athleticism and strokes the rock rather well.

Although his shooting numbers weren't eye-popping, Beal has the ability to become a very effective three-point threat in the NBA.

He should give the Wizards a much-needed offensive presence as well as a capable guard to pair up with the potent John Wall.

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4. Cleveland Cavaliers: Michael Kidd-Gilchirst, F, Kentucky

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2011-2012 stats: 11.8 PPG, 7.6 RPG, 2.0 APG

Height-Weight: 6'7", 232 lbs

Position: SF

Pro Comparison: Gerald Wallace

Although they've been the subject of numerous trade talks, the Cleveland Cavaliers will have no problem staying where they are.

Dan Gilbert and company will end up snatching whoever remains of Beal, Robinson, Kidd-Gilchrist and Barnes.

In this case, it's Michael Kidd-Gilchrist.

With their need for a solid wing talent, the pick will obviously come down to Barnes and the man they call MKG.

Many of you may be thinking the team may have some kind of crush on the North Carolina star. But according to this little nugget of information, Kidd-Gilchrist is their guy at No. 4.

The Kentucky Wildcat is a high-energy, give-it-my-all player. His versatility, size, length and strength on defense make him arguably the draft's best defender. He doesn't have a polished offensive game but can move extremely well to the hoop.

5. Sacramento Kings: Harrison Barnes, F, North Carolina

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2011-2012 stats: 17.4 PPG, 5.2 RPG, 1.0 APG

Height-Weight: 6'8", 215 lbs

Position: SF

Pro Comparison: Luol Deng

Just like the Cavaliers, the Sacramento Kings should also be rather content with whoever remains from the preceding selections.

For them, it could very well be North Carolina's Harrison Barnes.

Barnes may have been the first pick of the 2011 NBA draft had he declared. His scoring ability and instincts as a freshman had drawn him some rather flattering comparisons to Kobe Bryant.

But as it is in many cases, Barnes' decision to return to school backfired. He didn't exactly light the competition on fire with 17.4 points per and finished the year shooting at a terrible 33-percent clip

Regardless, Barnes will be the established talent the Kings are looking for.

Word is, however, that both Barnes and Kidd-Gilchrist are trying to "desperately" avoid being drafted by Sacramento. I ultimately believe this pick gets traded during the draft to Houston. If not, it's Barnes for the Kings.

6. Portland Trail Blazers (from New Jersey): Damian Lillard, G, Weber State

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2011-2012 stats: 24.5 PPG, 5.1 RPG, 4.0 APG

Height-Weight: 6'3", 195 lbs

Position: PG

Pro Comparison: Stephen Curry

Damian Lillard's lack of coverage can certainly be attributed to playing in a lesser-known school at Weber State.

The point guard's game, however, will have him right in the middle of the top-10 discussion of the draft.

Lillard is a very efficient and highly skilled guard. He shot 45 percent from long range and turned the ball over in just 10 percent of his possessions. He's smooth in the pick-and-roll, can drive well to either side and has game-breaking ability.

Above all, Lillard is one heck of a scorer. His 24.5 points per game ranked second in the nation during the 2011-2012 campaign. His jumpers as well as his to-the-basket game make him a solid scoring threat for the NBA. He'll fit in perfectly with the rest of the league's hybrid point guards.

That's why the Portland Trail Blazers should be calling his cell on draft day. Sure, the team could use a sizable forward in Harrison Barnes, Jared Sullinger or Perry Jones, but given the team's lack of a point guard, they should assure themselves here with this pick and worry about the frontcourt with the 11th overall selection.

7. Golden State Warriors: Dion Waiters, G, Syracuse

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2011-2012 stats: 12.6 PPG, 2.3 RPG, 2.6 APG

Height-Weight: 6'4", 215 lbs

Position: SG

Pro Comparison: Rodney Stuckey

Waiters, easily one of the draft's top pure scorers, wasn't mentioned as much as his fellow guards in this draft class.

Why? Because he came off the bench at Syracuse this season.

That, however, wasn't much of a problem for Waiters. The 6'4" guard averaged 12.6 points in 24.1 minutes as Jim Boeheim's sixth man.

He displayed his effectiveness in one-on-ones, his creativity at the rim and dangerous transition play.

Golden State should be thrilled to take their chances on a guy who has flashed a little Dwyane Wade ability, according to a few scouts (per Sports Illustrated).

That way, Golden State can finally fill their small forward spot by sliding over Klay Thompson and starting Waiters at the guard. If not, Waiters will be the third guard in a rotation that has nothing but scorers.

8. Toronto Raptors: Austin Rivers, G, Duke

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2011-2012 stats: 15.4 PPG, 3.4 RPG, 2.1 APG

Height-Weight: 6'4", 200 lbs

Position: PG/SG

Pro Comparison: O.J. Mayo

The Raptors need something—anything—to get back to relevancy.

But above all, they need someone who knows how to put the ball in the basket.

Given their need for a top scorer, Austin Rivers could be their man.

When I watch Rivers, I see a player who definitely knows how to create his own shot. His extensive, yet still growing, offensive arsenal consists of a nice pull-up jumper, a quick crossover and a seemingly limitless shot range. Rivers is also very crafty at the rim.

His father is good friends with head coach Monty Williams. It might mean nothing, or it might mean a lot. Regardless, Rivers is one of the more risky prospects in the draft.

9. Detroit Pistons: Andre Drummond, C, Connecticut

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2011-2012 stats: 10.2 PPG, 7.7 RPG, 0.5 APG, 2.7 BPG

Height-Weight: 6'10", 270 lbs

Position: C

Pro Comparison: Tyson Chandler

Detroit's Greg Monroe had himself a nice 2011-2012 campaign.

The big man averaged 15.4 points along with 9.7 rebounds.

Monroe, however, did not do much to stop opposing shots, tallying only 46 blocks.

The Pistons need a better defender and more athleticism down low, making UConn's Andre Drummond the clear pick if he's here.

He falls a tad here, but Drummond could very well be the most potent player in the class. He does, however, carry a rather scary amount of bust potential.

Drummond is anything but a finished product. He has great size and skill to become a highly feared defensive force at the next level. His less-than-impressive offense, however, may have teams shying away from the 6'10" prospect.

Until he works up his offense, Drummond can immediately give the Pistons an athletic defender to place alongside Monroe.

10. New Orleans Hornets (from Minnesota): Tyler Zeller, C, North Carolina

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2011-2012 stats: 16.5 PPG, 9.3 RPG, 1.0 APG, 1.5 BPG

Height-Weight: 7'0"-250 lbs

Position: C

Pro Comparison: Spencer Hawes

Although most of the draft buzz concerning centers has been surrounding Meyers Leonard, I believe the Hornets should opt for a more sure talent in Tyler Zeller.

In his four seasons at Chapel Hill, the seven-footer displayed his seemingly never-ending motor.

Zeller does a nice job of running the floor and often exhibits his high basketball I.Q.

He may not have the potential of a Drummond or a Leonard, but is a guy who can contribute almost immediately on defense. Zeller should pair up nicely with No. 1 pick Davis down low for years to come.

11. Portland Trail Blazers: Meyers Leonard, C, Illinois

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2011-2012 stats: 13.6 PPG, 8.2 RPG, 1.3 APG, 1.9 BPG

Height-Weight: 7'1"-245 lbs

Position: C

Pro Comparison: Byron Mullens

If Portland goes the smart route and passes up Andre Drummond for a much safer Damian Lillard, they could have their pick between Meyers Leonard and Tyler Zeller.

And since the UNC big was just taken, Leonard is the pick here.

Leonard, 7'1", just oozes potential. In addition to his incredible length, Leonard possesses great athleticism, good shot-blocking ability and even a decent jumper.

He doesn't have a tremendous amount of skill, but he can develop into a solid NBA center if he improves his strength and basketball I.Q.

12. Houston Rockets (from Milwaukee): Terrence Ross, G, Washington

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2011-2012 stats: 16.4 PPG, 6.4 RPG, 1.4 APG

Height-Weight: 6'6", 195 lbs

Position: SG

Pro Comparison: Nick Young

The latest riser in this year's draft is Washington wingman Terrence Ross.

Ross, a 6'6" sophomore guard, specializes at putting the ball in the net. He has a good outside stroke and a good pull-up jumper, and he uses his length and athleticism to get to the hoop.

Houston may or may not end up trading this selection. But if they don't, adding a guard should be a primary concern for the team this offseason. Why not start with Ross?

13. Phoenix Suns: Jeremy Lamb, G, Connecticut

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2011-2012 stats: 17.7 PPG, 4.9 RPG, 1.8 APG

Height-Weight: 6'5", 180 lbs

Position: SG

Pro Comparison: Kevin Martin

With Steve Nash testing free-agent waters and Shannon Brown as their starting shooting guard, Phoenix should be looking to upgrade their backcourt.

So if Jeremy Lamb is still sitting around, it's just too easy.

Attitude problems aside, Lamb is easily one of the best at putting the ball in the hoop. He has good ball-handling skills, a smooth first step and a knack for creating his own shot.

Lamb possesses a handful of favorable physical attributes which include his frame, wingspan and overall athletic ability.

If they decide to pass on Lamb, the Suns could opt for UNC's Kendall Marshall for some point guard insurance.

14. Milwaukee Bucks (from Houston): John Henson, F, North Carolina

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2011-2012 stats: 13.8 PPG, 10.1 RPG, 1.3 APG, 2.9 BPG

Height-Weight: 6'11", 220 lbs

Position: PF

Pro Comparison: Samuel Dalembert

Milwaukee moves down two spots after their trade with Houston on Wednesday.

And with a huge need for a post presence, John Henson would be an incredible grab for the Bucks here.

Henson, 6'11", has straight up ridiculous measurables. His 7'4" wingspan, in addition to his height, will allow him to be an immediate force on the defensive end.

Henson has great timing down low, runs the floor very well and passes the ball nicely for a big man.

In order to fully translate into an elite defender, Henson must bulk up and improve his physicality.

15. Philadelphia 76ers: Perry Jones, F, Baylor

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2011-2012 stats: 14.0 PPG, 7.7 RPG, 1.3 APG

Height-Weight: 6'11'', 235 lbs

Position: SF/PF

Pro Comparison: Anthony Randolph

If Baylor's Perry Jones III drops down to Philadelphia and ends up panning out in the NBA, then consider this the steal of night.

Just like fellow 2012 draftees Harrison Barnes and Jared Sullinger, Jones would have most likely landed within the top five of last year's proceedings had he left school.

Either way, Jones boasts just as much upside as any another player in the draft class.

In addition to his tremendous length, wingspan and overall athleticism, Jones is a very effective force down low. He could improve his strength and physicality, but he is very explosive to and at the rim.

The 6'11" Jones would give Philly some much-needed size and a great insurance policy if they decide to ship out Andre Iguodala.

16. Houston Rockets (from New York): Moe Harkless, F, St. John's

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2011-2012 stats: 15.3 PPG, 8.6 RPG, 1.4 APG

Height-Weight: 6'8", 208 lbs

Position: SF

Pro Comparison: Paul George

Even though staying at St. John's would have made him a surefire lottery player in the near future, forward Moe Harkless decided to dart Jamaica, Queens, for the NBA.

And despite playing just one year with a young Red Storm squad, he did flash some promising skills.

Harkless can score from just about anywhere on the court. He can score from mid- and three-point range and possesses a number of tools that allow him to get to the bucket.

Harkless is explosive at the rim, smooth through the lane and very aggressive on the boards.

No matter whether the Rockets are seeking to trade this pick out or not, Harkless would definitely be a nice little grab here.

17. Dallas Mavericks: Terrence Jones, F, Kentucky

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2011-2012 stats: 12.5 PPG, 7.0 RPG, 1.3 APG, 1.8 BPG

Height-Weight: 6'9", 252 lbs

Position: SF

Pro Comparison: Lamar Odom

The Mavs didn't get Lamar Odom when they traded for Lamar Odom. They could, however, get a younger version here.

Terrence Jones is another one of those Kentucky super-prospects. Although very young, Jones has flashed quite a few signs of an effective NBA talent.

And as a 2011-2012 Wildcat, you get all the intangibles with Jones. He's competitive, intense and plays the game with a constant motor. Jones also has nice size, is a strong rebounder and effective shot-blocker, and he can finish at the basket.

Moreover, Jones does have some three-point range. He does, however, need to improve the consistency of his jumper as well as post moves on the block.

18. Houston Rockets: Arnett Moultrie, F, Mississippi State

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2011-2012 stats: 15.8 PPG, 10.6 RPG, 1.1 APG

Height-Weight: 6'11", 230 lbs

Position: PF

Pro Comparison: Jason Thompson

As I stated earlier, the Houston Rockets are seeking to put some kind of package together for Orlando's Dwight Howard.

So drafting the almost seven-foot Arnett Moultrie would be a wise decision if Houston doesn't trade away this pick.

Moultrie has a knack to hit the offensive boards and has the ability to play both center and power forward in the NBA. He also boasts a very solid offensive game, as evidenced by his 15.8 points per.

19. Orlando Magic: Jared Sullinger, F, Ohio State

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2011-2012 stats: 17.6 PPG, 9.3 RPG, 1.2 APG

Height-Weight: 6'9", 265 lbs

Position: PF/C

Pro Comparison: Elton Brand

If you have a sick mind, then your favorite game during the 2012 NBA draft will be "How Low Can Sullinger Go?"

After having some reported back issues while being checked out by NBA doctors, the Ohio State Buckeye will have some trouble finding his way into the draft's top 15 or so picks.

But given their need for a post presence with or without Dwight Howard, the Magic should have no problem taking a chance with a promising prospect in Sullinger.

Sullinger, a sophomore, is easily one of the draft's most polished post players. He is great with his back to the basket as well as finding some position down low.

When Sullinger finds his way into the post, don't be surprised when you see the ball constantly finding its way into the rim.

The 6'9" forward/center has great hands, excellent footwork and incredible explosiveness.

20. Denver Nuggets: Kendall Marshall, G, North Carolina

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2011-2012 stats: 7.8 PPG, 2.6 RPG, 9.7 APG

Height-Weight: 6'4", 195 lbs

Position: PG

Pro Comparison: Jose Calderon

Although I ultimately believe he will be re-signed by the Denver Nuggets, there is a chance that point guard Andre Miller could be headed elsewhere.

If so, they'll need another guard off the bench.

Kendall Marshall has a knack for racking up dimes. His 9.7 assists ranked second in the nation, behind only Iona's Scott Machado.

The Tar Heel won't light up the points section in the box score but does have the craftiness and court vision to pile up the helpers.

Marshall can join fellow Tar Heel point guard Ty Lawson in George Karl's selfless system.

21. Boston Celtics: Royce White, F, Iowa State

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2011-2012 stats: 13.1 PPG, 9.2 RPG, 5.1 APG

Height-Weight: 6'8", 270 lbs

Position: SF/PF

Pro Comparison: Paul Millsap

Iowa State's Royce White would be another nice piece for a team seeing two-thirds of their roster hitting the market.

He isn't the best scorer nor the best attitude guy. White, however, is a player who can bang with the big boys down low.

The top features of his game include his strength, his post-up game and his ability to establish position. White is also a good ball-handler and passer for a man his size.

22. Boston Celtics (from L.A. Clippers): Andrew Nicholson, F, St. Bonaventure

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2011-2012 stats: 18.4 PPG, 8.5 RPG, 1.0 APG, 2.0 BPG

Height-Weight: 6'9", 240 lbs

Position: PF

Pro Comparison: Charlie Villanueva

Andrew Nicholson could end up as one of the best hidden gems of the draft.

And being that he is an offensively efficient big, he could be too much to pass up for Boston.

Nicholson boasts a very advanced scoring game that spans around the floor. He has good range and a nice jumper, and he is effective in the post.

23. Atlanta Hawks: Marquis Teague, G, Kentucky

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2011-2012 stats: 9.4 PPG, 2.5 RPG, 4.8 APG

Height-Weight: 6'2", 189 lbs

Position: PG

Pro Comparison: Ramon Sessions

If this pick isn't traded in some kind of Pau Gasol-Josh Smith deal, the Hawks should be looking for some depth behind point guard Jeff Teague.

So how about another point guard named Teague?

Kentucky's Teague should fit in here. He's lethal off the bounce, is dangerous in transition and will fit right into the current system with his three-point shooting.

24. Cleveland Cavaliers (from L.A. Lakers): Fab Melo, C, Syracuse

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2011-2012 stats: 7.8 PPG, 5.8 RPG, 0.7 APG, 2.9 BPG

Height-Weight: 7'0", 255 lbs

Position: C

Pro Comparison: DeSagana Diop

Fab Melo is one of the more questionable prospects in the draft. As of now, the only intriguing appeal of his game is his defense.

Melo, however, isn't very well-versed on the other side of the court.

The sophomore center doesn't have a great feel for any type of offensive game. He is extremely shy on offense, averaging just under five shots and two free-throws per game this past season.

Melo has also taken just 85 free throws to the tune of a 55.3 percent clip in his two years at Syracuse.

Cleveland needs a true center, and Melo could be it.

25. Memphis Grizzlies: Tony Wroten, G, Washington

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2011-2012 stats: 16.7 PPG, 5.0 RPG, 3.6 APG

Height-Weight: 6'5", 205 lbs

Position: PG/SG

Pro Comparison: Tyreke Evans

Tony Wroten of Washington is one of the top point guards in this class.

He has tremendous handle and is very good in transition and in the open floor.

Wroten also possesses nice size and rebounding ability for a point guard.

He's not a terribly great passer, but he does have good court vision.

Memphis needs some point guard depth. So Wroten should be the pick if available.

26. Indiana Pacers: Jeffery Taylor, F, Vanderbilt

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2011-2012 stats: 16.4 PPG, 5.8 RPG, 1.8 APG

Height-Weight: 6'7", 225 lbs

Position: SF

Pro Comparison: Matt Barnes

Being that Indiana doesn't have a particular need that can be repaired through this late first-rounder, we could see them going with the best available.

The best available could be Vanderbilt's Jeffery Taylor.

Taylor, a senior, possesses a range of very solid skills. He can find his shot to the basket and distribute well for his position.

Above all, Taylor is an NBA-ready defender. He's active and aggressive and has the size to defend from day one.

27. Miami Heat: Festus Ezeli, C, Vanderbilt

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2011-2012 stats: 10.0 PPG, 5.5 RPG, 0.3 APG

Height-Weight: 6'11", 264 lbs

Position: C

Pro Comparison: Brendan Haywood

The NBA Champions had themselves a heck of a season. But just as with every other team in the league, there are improvements to be made.

Miami should be looking to add some size—preferably a center—in the offseason. That's why Vandy's Festus Ezeli could be their guy here.

28. Oklahoma City Thunder: Draymond Green, F, Michigan State

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2011-2012 stats: 16.1 PPG, 10.4 RPG, 3.6 APG

Height-Weight: 6'7", 230 lbs

Position: SF/PF

Pro Comparison: Boris Diaw

Draymond Green is a terribly hard worker, an attribute that can catapult his draft stock.

He's an aggressive rebounder, is extremely physical and carries the I.Q. and leadership intangibles a young team looks for.

He can give Oklahoma City some more toughness on defense.

29. Chicago Bulls: Evan Fournier, G, Union Poitiers 86 (France)

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2011-2012 stats: 14.0 PPG, 3.2 RPG, 2.2 APG

Height-Weight: 6'7", 206 lbs

Position: SG

Pro Comparison: Evan Turner

If they can afford it, the Chicago Bulls could have a nice stash-away in Evan Fournier.

He has expressed some intention of playing in the states from day one by declaring for the draft. Then again, how can we be sure? (See: Rubio, Ricky)

In addition to his ideal size for an NBA wingman, Fournier is a considerably crafty talent. He does need to improve his jump shot but can create on offense.

Fournier proved his offensive worth with Union Poitiers in France, where he was heavily involved in the team's activity on most possessions.

30. Golden State Warriors: Quincy Miller, F, Baylor

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2011-2012 stats: 11.1 PPG, 5.0 RPG, 1.5 APG

Height-Weight: 6'9", 210 lbs

Position: SF

Pro Comparison: Nicolas Batum

Quincy Miller, freshman, is anything but inept when it comes to scoring.

Although his numbers don't always show it, Miller has a wide range of positives that allow him to do so.

He plays well in the three-point and mid-range game, can create his shot and has a nice touch at the rim. Miller is lengthy but does need to bulk up his frame for the next level.