Thomas Robinson: Bobcats Can't Afford to Pass on Kansas Star with No. 2 Pick
The Charlotte Bobcats are taking as many chances as they can leading up to the 2012 NBA draft, but the biggest decision this team can make is what to do with the No. 2 pick.
Analyzing all the mock drafts out there right now, the two names linked to the Bobcats are Thomas Robinson from Kansas and Michael Kidd-Gilchrist from Kentucky.
According to Jeff Goodman of CBS Sports, the feeling around the league is that the Bobcats will grab Robinson, with Kidd-Gilchrist still in the mix.
"Most feel Charlotte will take Thomas Robinson if keep No. 2 pick. Sources told CBSSports Michael Kidd-Gilchrist heavily under consideration.
— Jeff Goodman (@GoodmanCBS) June 27, 2012"
Even though there are a lot of problems that the Bobcats have to fix before they can hope to contend, going with Robinson in this spot would be the absolute, 100 percent right choice for what this franchise needs now.
In a different time and situation, Kidd-Gilchrist would be the perfect player for the Bobcats. He is the youngest player in the draft, with as much upside as anyone available. But he also comes with a lot more risk, because of his age and lack of polish to his game right now.
Robinson is three years older than Kidd-Gilchrist, which does limit his eventual ceiling, but his floor is much higher than Kidd-Gilchrist, and is more likely to be able to contribute right away.
The Bobcats are a sinking ship right now. Actually, they have sunk and are scrambling to find a life preserver. The addition of Ben Gordon gives them a shooter, which they desperately need, as well as another first-round pick in the future they can use to build around.
But they still lack impact talent. Robinson's development during his three years at Kansas was exactly what you want to see from a young, talented athlete who was trying to figure out his game. He exploded onto the scene this year, averaging career highs in points (17.7), rebounds (11.9), blocks (0.9) and steals (1.1).
Robinson gives the Bobcats an impact big man they can build the rest of their team around over the next few seasons. Championship teams, more often than not, are build from the inside out. Robinson is the perfect pick for the Bobcats on Draft Night, and one they can't afford to pass on.
