
2011 NBA Mock Draft: Who Goes to the Chicago Bulls at the End of Round 1?
After the NBA trade deadline had passed, some speculation as to why the Chicago Bulls didn't try to deal for a second guard was questioned?
However, the current formula has been working, so coach Tom Thibodeau went with the "If it ain't broke, don't fix it" cliche.
That said, so far so good, but getting that Scottie Pippen-type player to compliment Derrick Rose will be needed as his career progresses.
So, who goes to the Bulls at the end of round one?
Well, let's get through the beginning and middle of the first round to start, and then we shall find out.
1. Minnesota Timberwolves: Kyrie Irving, PG, Duke
1 of 30
2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES
MINUTES: 27.5
POINTS: 17.5
ASSISTS: 4.3
FG%: 52.9
FT%: 90.1
Despite playing in only 11 games this past season, Kyrie Irving is just as good as anybody at making his teammates better.
To question his durability is reasonable, but his attitude and effort will over-shadow that.
He is somewhat of a risk, however it's not like no team has ever done that before.
2. Cleveland Cavaliers: Derrick Williams, PF, Arizona
2 of 30
2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES
MINUTES: 30
POINTS: 19.5
REBOUNDS: 8.3
FG%: 59.5
FT%: 74.6
His basketball IQ may be his best asset, as Derrick Williams has excellent court awareness.
It's almost like a sixth sense, which will come in handy since he's rather undersized for being in the paint.
However, a player with his type of tenacity is just what the Cavs' need.
3. Toronto Raptors: Donatas Motiejunas, PF, Lithuania
3 of 30
2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES
MINUTES: 26.4
POINTS: 12.1
REBOUNDS: 5.0
FG%: 49.7
FT%: 66.75
Whether he shoots from the inside or outside, Donatas Motiejunas is a very consistent shooter.
And, he does have the fire within him to compete, the question is whether he'll do that all the time in the NBA.
4. Washington Wizards: Marcus Morris, SF/PF, Kansas
4 of 30
2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES
MINUTES: 28.3
POINTS: 17.2
REBOUNDS: 7.6
FG%: 57.0
FT%: 68.8
A very good scorer, and is in excellent condition since he transitions well.
However, Marcus Morris needs to anticipate the shot better on defense because he virtually has not blocking ability.
Defending the quicker SFs will be a concern in the association, so it'll be interesting to see his willingness to improve.
5. Sacramento Kings: Kemba Walker, PG, Connecticut
5 of 30
2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES
MINUTES: 37.6
POINTS: 23.5
ASSISTS: 4.5
FG%: 42.8
FT%: 81.9
Although Kemba Walker has yet to really find his shot, he's still a very good marksman.
He's actually more impressive inside the paint, so if his long-range game becomes even more deadly, he will become a complete offensive player very soon.
Also, once he learns to be a bit more patient and not make as many bad decisions, it'll be easier for him to make his teammates better.
6. Utah Jazz: Brandon Knight, PG/SG, Kentucky
6 of 30
2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES
MINUTES: 35.9
POINTS: 17.3
ASSISTS: 4.2
FG%: 42.3
FT%: 79.5
For a PG, Brandon Knight's 6' 3" frame is big, but in addition, he's also very quick and has good body control.
In the NBA though, it will be fun to see if he can get to the rim as he was hardly challenged in high school or college.
7. Detroit Pistons: Jimmer Fredette, PG, BYU
7 of 30
2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES
MINUTES: 35.8
POINTS: 28.9
ASSISTS: 4.3
FG%: 45.2
FT%: 89.4
Creates his own shots, even late in the game which makes him that much more dangerous.
However, where exactly does Jimmer Fredette fit since he's not your typical PG?
Chances are he'll be used as a SG, but either way Jimmer should be a solid contributor.
8. Cleveland Cavaliers: Markieff Morris, Kansas
8 of 30
2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES
MINUTES: 24.4
POINTS: 13.6
REBOUNDS: 8.3
FG%: 58.9
FT%: 67.3
Defensively, Markieff Morris is better than his brother as he uses strength to force the opponent into taking a tough shot.
Offensively, he needs to improve as the mid-range jumper is missing.
Nonetheless, he has the ability to crash boards and get it done in the paint to kick it back out.
9. Charlotte Bobcats: Alec Burks, PG/SG, Colorado
9 of 30
2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES
MINUTES: 31.4
POINTS: 20.5
REBOUNDS: 6.5
FG%: 46.9
FT%: 82.5
He finishes well, which can be attributed to his solid aggression.
However, he needs to be a bit more active without the ball, since it will cause more open shots.
Also, in being only 18 years old he has a lot of time to grow and mature, but the fact that he's a very coachable player puts him on another level.
10. Milwaukee Bucks: Terrence Jones, SF/PF, Kentucky
10 of 30
2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES
MINUTES: 31.7
POINTS: 15.7
REBOUNDS: 8.8
FG%: 44.2
FT%: 64.6
Can play and is willing to play out of his comfort zone, makes Terrence Jones a very adaptable player.
Thus, has the ability to score anywhere on the court, and in a variety of ways.
But, he does need to get a little quicker and relax more. Sometimes he restricts the fluidity of his own movement, which could be the reason for his inconsistent concentration.
11. Golden State Warriors: Enes Kanter, PF/C
11 of 30
2009 SEASON AVERAGES
MINUTES: 28.4
POINTS: 18.6
REBOUNDS: 16.4
FG%: 52.15
FT%: 70.0
Despite being ruled ineligible for the 2010-11 NCAA season, Enes Kanter is still a top NBA prospect.
He's a smart player and shows excellent control and ambidexterity for his size.
A concern would be sitting out a full season, in addition to some knee problems, but that still won't be enough for someone to NOT give him an opportunity.
12. Utah Jazz: Kawhi Leonard, SF, San Diego State
12 of 30
2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES
MINUTES: 32.6
POINTS: 15.5
REBOUNDS: 10.6
FG%: 44.4
FT%: 75.9
Even though his comfort zone is on the perimeter, Kawhi Leonard still has the ability to grab rebounds and score on tip-ins.
In the association, however, he will need to become more consistent on the outside while at the same time be willing to drive.
Otherwise, he'll never reach his full potential at basketball's highest level of difficulty.
13. Phoenix Suns: Jan Vesely, SF/PF, Czech Republic
13 of 30
2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES
MINUTES: 27.0
POINTS: 10.1
REBOUNDS: 3.6
FG%: 47.75
FT%: 44.4
Since he gives 100 percent each time on the court, Jan Vesely puts himself in position to easily score from dunks and lay-ups in transition.
Definitely weaker on offense but has been improving, so as long as that continues Vesely should make a solid pro player.
14. Houston Rockets: Chris Singleton, SF/PF, Florida State
14 of 30
2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES
MINUTES: 29.1
POINTS: 13.1
REBOUNDS: 6.8
FG%: 43.4
FT%: 66.7
As an all-around defensive player, Chris Singleton can rebound verse anyone, guard at multiple positions, and cause problems off the ball.
He's excellent in transition, but needs to become more aware on offense as opposed to just relying on being physical.
That said, Singleton has the potential to be a great NBA player.
15. Indiana Pacers: Tristan Thompson, PF, Texas
15 of 30
2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES
MINUTES: 30.9
POINTS: 13.1
REBOUNDS: 7.8
FG%: 54.6
FT%: 48.7
Tristan Thompson can run the floor well, and even when the play isn't designed for him, he still manages to get solid looks at the bucket because he moves well off the ball.
If he can become more consistent just outside the paint, his offensive game will be very dangerous.
16. Philadelphia 76ers: Tobias Harris, SF/PF, Tennessee
16 of 30
2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES
MINUTES: 29.2
POINTS: 15.3
REBOUNDS: 7.3
FG%: 46.0
FT%: 75.3
Tobas Harris' blue-collar mindset is what makes him a great player.
Can get it done in the paint with either hand, but needs to work on the jumper.
He's also undersized and lacks explosiveness, but the work ethic makes up for it.
17. New York Knicks: Tyler Honeycutt, SG/SF, UCLA
17 of 30
2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES
MINUTES: 35.0
POINTS: 12.8
REBOUNDS: 7.2
FG%: 40.6
FT%: 73.6
Tyler Honeycutt's court awareness in second to none.
Off the dribble to dish it out, or posting up mid-range in tough situations allow him to be very effective.
However, becoming more consistent from downtown while not trying to do too much is needed.
Thus, an easier transition to the pro level.
18. Washington Wizards: Klay Thompson, SF, Washington State
18 of 30
2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES
MINUTES: 34.7
POINTS: 21.6
REBOUNDS: 5.2
FG%: 43.6
FT%: 83.8
A pure shooter with good size, and a solid feel for the game, Klay Thompson keeps you moving off the ball and can effectively score.
That said, he does need to improve quickness and full court game as he's stronger at half-court.
Therefore, becoming more athletic is a must so the transition game can be relevant.
19. Charlotte Bobcats: Jordan Hamilton, SG/SF, Texas
19 of 30
2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES
MINUTES: 32.2
POINTS: 18.6
REBOUNDS: 7.7
FG%: 44.0
FT%: 77.9
Jordan Hamilton's versatility can be used virtually anywhere on the court, but playing within himself is imperative as he sometimes tries to do too much.
However, the ability to grab rebounds is amongst the best as he's very good at anticipating the bounce.
And, once he finds his niche, he will have reached a new level of game.
20. Minnesota Timberwolves: Charles Jenkins, SG, Hofstra
20 of 30
2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES
MINUTES: 37.3
POINTS: 22.6
ASSISTS: 4.8
FG%: 51.7
FT%: 82.4
He's undersized and played as a one-man show in college, but Charles Jenkins has the heart and tenacity to turn some heads in the NBA.
Shoots the ball well, and has solid court awareness, but could use some improvement defensively.
In any event, Jenkins will be a great asset to wherever he lands.
21. Portland Trailblazers: Keneth Faried, PF, Morehead State
21 of 30
2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES
MINUTES: 34.7
POINTS: 17.3
REBOUNDS: 14.5
FG%: 62.3
FT%: 57.7
Explosive, quick, aggressive and not afraid to do the dirty work.
But, in order for Kenneth Faried to sustain longevity in the NBA, he needs to become more creative and improve at the line.
However, his tenacity will carry him through the first few years with ease.
22. Denver Nuggets: Trey Thompkins, PF, Georgia
22 of 30
2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES
MINUTES: 31.2
POINTS: 16.2
REBOUNDS: 7.6
FG%: 48.1
FT%: 68.9
In the paint and on the perimeter, Trey Thompkins has a solid shot, but mid-range is where he needs some work done.
That said, if the mid-range comes to the party then Thompkins turns into a all-around shooter.
He's also already got the poise, now he just needs to add the focus.
23. Houston Rockets: Nolan Smith, PG/SG, Duke
23 of 30
2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES
MINUTES: 34.0
POINTS: 20.6
ASSISTS: 5.1
FG%: 45.8
FT%: 81.3
Has the ability to significantly contribute from the start with his great vision and decision-making ability.
Now, if only Nolan Smith can get a bit more explosive (thus improve his defense) then he will earn more playing time.
Otherwise, he may have to wait even longer to showcase his talent.
24. Oklahoma City Thunder: Bismack Biyombo, C, Congo
24 of 30
2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES
MINUTES: 17.0
POINTS: 6.4
REBOUNDS: 5.1
FG%: 56.1
FT%: 55.3
Probably the best name ever, Bismack Biyombo is a defensive shot blocking, rebounding force.
Although, the dismal free-throw percentage needs work, so do the fundamentals and basic techniques.
However, his effort goes without saying which only plays to the advantage of him improving in every facet of the game.
25. Boston Celtics: Lucas Nogueira, C, Brazil
25 of 30
2010 SEASON AVERAGES
MINUTES: 24.4
POINTS: 15.6
REBOUNDS: 10.0
FG%: 74.4
FT%: 70.0
Moves around like a snake and despite his size, Lucas Nogueira is very quick and nimble.
A solid free throw shooter, Nogueira is also a decent touch shooter.
He's a great shot blocker on defense, but he is his own worst enemy if the effort doesn't kick in.
There's no room being lazy in professional sports.
26. Dallas Mavericks: Shelvin Mack, PG/SG, Butler
26 of 30
2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES
MINUTES: 32.1
POINTS: 16.0
ASSISTS: 3.4
FG%: 40.8
FT%: 76.9
A PG in basketball is to a QB in football, and Shelvin Mack manages games very well.
His patience creates multiple looks for his teammates, and forces defenses out of their game plan.
Now, once he increases that quickness and explosiveness, then his game will that much closer to becoming a complete PG.
27. New Jersey Nets: JaJuan Johnson, PF, Purdue
27 of 30
2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES
MINUTES: 35.4
POINTS: 20.5
REBOUNDS: 8.6
FG%: 49.4
FT%: 80.9
JaJuan Johnson's athleticism is what allows him to dominate the floor in transition and scramble situations.
And, as long as his offensive game continues to improve, there's no reason to suspect that Johnson can't reach his full potential.
28. Chicago Bulls: Travis Leslie, SG/SF, Georgia
28 of 30
2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES
MINUTES: 32.2
POINTS: 14.4
REBOUNDS: 7.2
FG%: 49.2
FT%: 80.1
Over-analyzation is not always a bad thing, but when trying to react on the fly it needs to go on the back-burner.
With that said though, Travis Leslie still has great body control (even in mid-flight) in addition to being a versatile defender.
He also needs to improve from downtown if he wants to become a real shooting threat in the association.
29. San Antonio Spurs: Jordan Williams, PF, Maryland
29 of 30
2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES
MINUTES: 32.5
POINTS: 16.9
REBOUNDS: 11.8
FG%: 53.8
FT%: 57.5
Jordan Williams is an excellent rebounder, combined with the ability to drive and get to the rim.
In the fast-break he's even more dangerous as Maryland's ever-changing flexible offense put him in various roles.
The question is whether he can condition himself into shape, while still developing instincts and some post moves.
He does work hard, but he's got to learn to work smart as well.
30. Chicago Bulls: Jereme Richmond, SF, Illinois
30 of 30
2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES
MINUTES: 22.1
POINTS: 7.6
REBOUNDS: 5.0
FG%: 52.8
FT%: 60.5
Jereme Richmond in 2010 was somewhat inconsistent, but when at his peak he dominated the floor.
In transition he has great speed and explosiveness, but when the game slows down (like at the free throw line) he does struggles at times.
However, Richmond still has a lot of time to mature, so the potential is definitely there.









