2011 NBA Mock Draft: Will Alec Burks Be Taken in the Lottery?

Incredibly, the 2011 French Open is finally about to begin. In fact, it already has (in the qualifying). Nearly a year has elapsed since Nadal won his fifth title, and nearly two (!) since Roger Federer completed a historic Career Grand Slam.

For the players to get to history, however, they need to get to the final—and no one does that without winning six matches. The first, however, will always prove the most difficult and dangerous.

Even for players of the calibre of a Federer, Nadal, or Williams, the first round will always be a nervy moment. Its that awkward transition from peaceful training mode to full-on war mode, and often against someone they are expected almost certainly to trounce.

The round pf 128, however, offers the most matches, and surely in there are a few highlight, marquee matchups. These are ten of the best to look out for in the men's and women's draws.

1. Cleveland Cavaliers (From L.A. Clippers): Kyrie Irving, PG Duke

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ANAHEIM, CA - MARCH 24: Kyrie Irving #1 of the Duke Blue Devils looks on against the Arizona Wildcats during the west regional semifinal of the 2011 NCAA men's basketball tournament at the Honda Center on March 24, 2011 in Anaheim, California. (Photo by

2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES

MINUTES: 27.5

POINTS: 17.5

ASSISTS: 4.3

FG%: 52.9

FT%: 90.1

The professional basketball future in Cleveland rests on the shoulders of Kyrie Irving.

The fact that he only played in 11 games last season is a concern, but during those games business was booming.

It's a high risk, high reward situation, so the Cavaliers need this pick to work.

2. Minnesota Timberwolves: Derrick Williams, SF Arizona

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TULSA, OK - MARCH 18: Derrick Williams #23 of the Arizona Wildcats reacts to a play against the Memphis Tigers during the second round of the 2011 NCAA men's basketball tournament at BOK Center on March 18, 2011 in Tulsa, Oklahoma. (Photo by Tom Penning

2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES

MINUTES: 30.0

POINTS: 19.5

REBOUNDS: 8.3

FG%: 59.5

FT%: 74.6

Derrick Williams in Minnesota would be huge for the Timberwolves on either side.

Kevin Love has the ability to play center, then move Michael Beasley to his true PF position.

Add in Williams at SF and let the youth of a nation take over.

3. Utah Jazz (From New Jersey): Brandon Knight, PG Kentucky

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HOUSTON, TX - APRIL 02: Brandon Knight #12 of the Kentucky Wildcats moves the ball while taking on the Connecticut Huskies during the National Semifinal game of the 2011 NCAA Division I Men's Basketball Championship at Reliant Stadium on April 2, 2011 in

2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES

MINUTES: 35.9

POINTS: 17.3

ASSISTS: 4.2

FG%: 42.3

FT%: 79.5

If the Jazz want someone who can make things happen, especially on the fly, Brandon Knight is the man for the job.

Not to mention, he would definitely set-up Gordon Heyward (who can play either SF or SG).

And, based on the downfall after Deron Williams was traded, Utah needs to replenish at PG. 

4. Cleveland Cavaliers: Enes Kanter, C Kentucky

2009 SEASON AVERAGES

MINUTES: 28.4

POINTS: 18.6

REBOUNDS: 16.4

FG%: 52.15

FT%: 70.0

We all know the NCAA ruled Enes Kanter ineligible for the 2010-11 season.

Well, apparently he has some talent, otherwise he wouldn't be considered a top prospect.

That said, the Cavs' need a tough, physical presence down low, and Kanter will produce.

Combine him with Kyrie Irving and the future has great potential.

5. Toronto Raptors: Kemba Walker, PG Connecticut

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HOUSTON, TX - APRIL 04: Kemba Walker #15 of the Connecticut Huskies handles the ball against the Butler Bulldogs during the National Championship Game of the 2011 NCAA Division I Men's Basketball Tournament at Reliant Stadium on April 4, 2011 in Houston,

2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES

MINUTES: 37.6

POINTS: 23.5

ASSISTS: 4.5

FG%: 42.8

FT%: 81.9

Toronto needs a guy who can score virtually at-will from the perimeter.

Also, one who can make things happen by driving the lane to score or kick it out.

Well, look no further than Kemba Walker as he was arguably the most important player to his team than anyone else in the country.

The reasoning? UConn brought home the national title.

6. Washinton Wizards: Kawhi Leaonard, SF San Diego State

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TUCSON, AZ - MARCH 19: Kawhi Leonard #15 of the San Diego State Aztecs drives against the Temple Owls during the third round of the 2011 NCAA men's basketball tournament at McKale Center on March 19, 2011 in Tucson, Arizona. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Im

2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES

MINUTES: 32.6

POINTS: 15.5

REBOUNDS: 10.6

FG%: 44.4

FT%: 75.9

To make room for Kawhi Leonard, Washington will need to release, or should release Maurice Evans and Josh Howard.

Now, although it would mean handing the starting spot to him over Rashard Lewis, then so be it.

Leonard has tons of potential, and could help such a young team gain some ground very fast.

7. Sacramento Kings: Jan Vesely, F Czech Republic

2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES

MINUTES: 27.0

POINTS: 10.1

REBOUNDS: 3.6

FG%: 47.75

FT%: 44.4

Well, despite the fact that the Kings are rather deep between both forward positions, none would make an impact like Jan Vesely.

Pair Vesely with center Samuel Dalembert, PF DeMarcus Cousins and Sacramento's frontcourt is looking pretty solid.

8. Detroit Pistons: Bismack Biyombo, PF/C Congo

2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES

MINUTES: 17.0

POINTS: 6.4

REBOUNDS: 5.1

FG%: 56.1

FT%: 55.3

In addition to having arguably one of the greatest names in all of, well ever, Bismack Biyombo would be like Ben Wallace 2.0, but with much more potential to get to 3-point or 4.0.

He crashes boards, gives 100 percent, and is as physical as they come.

In other words, he likes pain.

That is one guy who can help your team.

9. Charlotte Bobcats: Alec Burks, G Colorado

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KANSAS CITY, MO - MARCH 11: Alec Burks #10 of the Colorado Buffaloes drives with the ball against the Kansas Jayhawks during their semifinal game in the 2011 Phillips 66 Big 12 Men's Basketball Tournament at Sprint Center on March 11, 2011 in Kansas City

2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES

MINUTES: 31.4

POINTS: 20.5

REBOUNDS: 6.5

FG%: 46.9

FT%: 82.5

The versatility of Alec Burks will be of great use to Michael Jordan's Charlotte Bobcats.

Allow him to run the point and begin to learn how to take over an NBA game, or slide over to SG and help out current PG D.J. Augustin.

Chances are he'll be a SG to maximize on his ability to shoot and draw fouls.

Then with Augustin at PG, Charlotte has a solid backcourt.

10. Milwaukee Bucks: Tristan Thompson, PF Texas

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TULSA, OK - MARCH 20: Tristan Thompson #13 of the Texas Longhorns walks off the court after their 70-69 loss to the Arizona Wildcats in the third round of the 2011 NCAA men's basketball tournament at BOK Center on March 20, 2011 in Tulsa, Oklahoma. (Pho

2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES

MINUTES: 30.9

POINTS: 13.1

REBOUNDS: 7.8

FG%: 54.6

FT%: 48.7

Utilize Richard Luc Mbah a Moute strictly as a SF, so he's not pulling double-duty at both forwards, then bring in Tristan Thompson to takeover at PF.

There, he could help improve Milwaukee's 30th ranked offense that only scored 91.9 points per game.

Defensively, he's just as effective, so the Bucks' D wouldn't lose a step.

11. Golden State Warriors: Marcus Morris, PF Kansas

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SAN ANTONIO, TX - MARCH 25: Marcus Morris #22 of the Kansas Jayhawks shoots against the Richmond Spiders during the southwest regional of the 2011 NCAA men's basketball tournament at the Alamodome on March 25, 2011 in San Antonio, Texas. Kansas defeated

2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES

MINUTES: 28.3

POINTS: 17.2

REBOUNDS: 7.6

FG%: 57.0

FT%: 68.8

Although Marcus Morris' defense isn't necessarily his strongest asset, grabbing boards would most definitely help out the Warriors.

However, he would fit right in with Golden State as he can be a very effective scorer while also displaying as a good transition athlete. 

12. Utah Jazz: Chris Singleton, SF Florida State

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CHICAGO, IL - MARCH 18: Chris Singleton #31 of the Florida State Seminoles jogs down court in the second half of the game against the Texas A&M Aggies during the second round of the 2011 NCAA men's basketball tournament at the United Center on March 18,

2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES

MINUTES: 29.1

POINTS: 13.1

REBOUNDS: 6.8

FG%: 43.4

FT%: 66.7

After allowing 101.3 points per game last season, the addition of Chris Singleton in Utah will do wonders.

He's excellent on and off the ball, and can transition with anyone else on the court.

His offense does need work, but allow fellow Jazz Andrei Kirilenko and Gordon Heyward to show 'em how it's done.

13. Phoenix Suns: Jimmer Fredette, G BYU

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NEW ORLEANS, LA - MARCH 24: Jimmer Fredette #32 of the Brigham Young Cougars drives past Kenny Boynton #1 of the Florida Gators during the Southeast regional of the 2011 NCAA men's basketball tournament at New Orleans Arena on March 24, 2011 in New Orlea

2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES

MINUTES: 35.8

POINTS: 28.9

ASSISTS: 4.3

FG%: 45.2

FT%: 89.4

Basically a perfect piece to fit the puzzle in Phoenix, Jimmer Fredette's versatility will be crucial.

For however long Steve Nash decides to run the point, dishing the rock to Fredette should draw attention away from the paint.

Then, once Nash decides to hang it up, allow Jimmer to take over as the franchises' new QB of basketball.

14. Houston Rockets: Jonas Valanciunas, PF/C Lithuania

2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES

MINUTES: 20.6

POINTS: 11.5

REBOUNDS: 7.3

FG%: 66.8

FT%: 78.1

In the midst of a changing their identity, a good start for the Rockets would be Jonas Valanciunas.

They don't have a standout center or PF, and Jonas definitely can play both.

Also, adding him would allow room to release a few players to save cap space THEN, sign another solid player in the free agent market to rebuild in Texas.

15. Indiana Pacers: Klay Thompson, SG/SF Washington State

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LOS ANGELES, CA - MARCH 10: Klay Thompson #1 of the Washington State Cougars looks on in the first half while taking on the Washington Huskies in the quarterfinals of the 2011 Pacific Life Pac-10 Men's Basketball Tournament at Staples Center on March 10,

2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES

MINUTES: 34.7

POINTS: 21.6

REBOUNDS: 5.2

FG%: 43.6

FT%: 83.8

With Mike Dunleavy and Danny Graner at SF, look for Klay Thompson to be a SG for Indiana.

He does need to improve in transition, but his half-court ability combined with his ability to score more than make up for it.

That said, if he wants to become a complete player, becoming more athletic is a must.

16. Philadelphia 76ers: Markieff Morris, PF Kansas

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TULSA, OK - MARCH 20: Markieff Morris #21 of the Kansas Jayhawks celebrates after a play against the Illinois Fighting Illini during the third round of the 2011 NCAA men's basketball tournament at BOK Center on March 20, 2011 in Tulsa, Oklahoma. (Photo

2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES

MINUTES: 24.4

POINTS: 13.6

REBOUNDS: 8.3

FG%: 58.9

FT%: 67.3

For as good as Philadelphia was sharing the rock and having a respectable defense, more offense is needed.

Well, Markieff Morris can provide some as he's solid around the rim and in transition.

His defense isn't bad either, as he can force opponents into taking an illegitimate shot.

17. New York Knicks: Donatas Motiejunas, PF/C Lithuania

2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES

MINUTES: 26.4

POINTS: 12.1

REBOUNDS: 5.0

FG%: 49.7

FT%: 66.75

Include the fact that Mike D'Antoni coached teams don't believe that playing defense exists, and Donatas Motiejunas will be more than welcomed.

He has the ability to knock it down from in the paint, on the elbow, or from downtown.

However, he still needs to learn to hit that extra gear as 100 percent all the time isn't his forte.

18. Washinton Wizards (From Atlanta): Kenneth Faried, PF Morehead State

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DENVER, CO - MARCH 17: Kenneth Faried #35 of the Morehead State Eagles looks on during the second round of the 2011 NCAA men's basketball tournament at Pepsi Center on March 17, 2011 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Doug Pensinger/Getty Images)

2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES

MINUTES: 34.7

POINTS: 17.3

REBOUNDS: 14.5

FG%: 62.3

FT%: 57.7

He was basically a one-man show with Morehead State, and Kenneth Faried still led them to the NCAA tourney despite being really, only a defensive force.

Now, he still does have the ability to score, it does need to significantly improve.

In Washington, that shouldn't be an issue with John Wall drawing attention to help set him up.

19. Charlotte Bobcats (From New Orleans/Portland): Jordan Hamilton, SG/SF Texas

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KANSAS CITY, MO - MARCH 11: Jordan Hamilton #3 of the Texas Longhorns drives with the ball against the Texas A&M Aggies during their semifinal game in the 2011 Phillips 66 Big 12 Men's Basketball Tournament at Sprint Center on March 11, 2011 in Kansas Ci

2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES

MINUTES: 32.2

POINTS: 18.6

REBOUNDS: 7.7

FG%: 44.0

FT%: 77.9

His versatility is what can really propel Charlotte to that next level.

Whether at SG or SF, Jordan Hamilton's athleticism will carry him through his first few years in the association.

Once he learns to play within himself and not try to do too much, then some heads will start turning as ankles begin to break.

20. Minnesota Timberwolves (From Memphis/Utah): Nolan Smith, G Duke

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CHARLOTTE, NC - MARCH 20: Nolan Smith #2 of the Duke Blue Devils looks on while taking on the Michigan Wolverines during the third round of the 2011 NCAA men's basketball tournament at Time Warner Cable Arena on March 20, 2011 in Charlotte, North Carolin

2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES

MINUTES: 34.0

POINTS: 20.6

ASSISTS: 5.1

FG%: 45.8

FT%: 81.3

If Minnesota wants a guy who can really improve the offense at PG, Nolan Smith is that guy.

If Minnesota wants a guy who can be an effective scorer from mid-range and downtown, Smith is that guy.

Not to mention, if they draft the aforementioned Derrick Williams, then Smith will only become that much more effective for the T-Wolves.

21. Portland Trail Blazers: Lucas Nogueira, C Brazil

2010 SEASON AVERAGES

MINUTES: 24.4

POINTS: 15.6

REBOUNDS: 10.0

FG%: 74.4

FT%: 70.0

Is Greg Oden ever going to get consistently healthy?

How soon until Marcus Camby decides to retire?

Well, both of these questions could quickly evaporate if Portland decides to draft Lucas Nogueira from Brazil.

He's solid on both ends of the court, but the only concern is whether he has enough drive to put forth the effort all the time.

22. Denver Nuggets: Reggie Jackson, PG Boston College

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GREENSBORO, NC - MARCH 10: Reggie Jackson #0 of the Boston College Eagles drives against the Wake Forest Demon Deacons during the second half of the game in the first round of the 2011 ACC men's basketball tournament at the Greensboro Coliseum on March 1

2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES

MINUTES: 34.1

POINTS: 18.2

ASSISTS: 4.5

FG%: 50.3

FT%: 79.6

He may be more suitable as a SG in Denver if Ty Lawson or Raymond Felton have a break-out year.

Nonetheless Reggie Jackson could be a valuable asset to the Nuggets because of his ability to score from the point and his transition.

Not to mention, playing 34 minutes a game as you can see, means that he is in great condition.

23. Houston Rockets (From Orlando/Phoenix): Charles Jenkins, PG Hofstra

2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES

MINUTES: 37.3

POINTS: 22.6

ASSISTS: 4.8

FG%: 51.7 

FT%: 82.4

Previously mentioned was the fact that the Houston Rockets are headed in a new direction.

A new head coach will be in place at some point, Shane Battier is gone, and Yao Ming as yet to be re-signed.

Enter Charles Jenkins who was the heart and soul of Hofstra's basketball team.

Having a young man with so much character, combined with a good shot and solid court awareness, and there's no reason why Houston shouldn't take him.

24. Oklahoma City Thunder: Tobias Harris, F Tennessee

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CHARLOTTE, NC - MARCH 18: Tobias Harris #12 of the Tennessee Volunteers reacts in the first half while taking on the Michigan Wolverines during the second round of the 2011 NCAA men's basketball tournament at Time Warner Cable Arena on March 18, 2011 in

2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES

MINUTES: 29.2

POINTS: 15.3

REBOUNDS: 7.3

FG%: 46.0

FT%: 75.3

Despite the fact that OKC has Kevin Durant and Serge Ibaka at their starting forwards, after them there isn't much depth.

Sure Nick Collison and Robert Vaden can fill in, but they wouldn't replace like Tobias Harris.

Harris has the ability to score, and doesn't shy away from doing to dirty work.

Can't ask for much more from a bench guy that's behind Durant or Ibaka.

25. Boston Celtics: Kyle Singler, F Duke

Joel Auerbach/Getty Images

CORAL GABLES, FL - FEBRUARY 13: Kyle Singler #12 of the Duke Blue Devils passes the ball against the Miami Hurricanes on February 13, 2011 at the BankUnited Center in Coral Gables, Florida. (Photo by Joel Auerbach/Getty Images)

2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES

MINUTES: 34.8

POINTS: 16.9

REBOUNDS: 6.8

FG%: 43.0

FT%: 80.6

Sooner or later Paul Piece and Kevin Garnett will have to retire.

With that said, is Troy Murphy and Jeff Green the long-term solution?

We won't know if Glen Davis is going to be back since he's a free agent along with Murphy, so where does that leave the Celtics?

Duke's Kyle Singler that's where.

He'll take pressure off of Rondo, while providing the ability to drive, draw fouls, and grab boards.

26. Dallas Mavericks: Tyler Honeycutt, SG/SF UCLA

J. Meric/Getty Images

TAMPA, FL - MARCH 19: Tyler Honeycutt #23 of the UCLA Bruins attempts a shot agaisnt the Florida Gators during the third round of the 2011 NCAA men's basketball tournament at St. Pete Times Forum on March 19, 2011 in Tampa, Florida. Florida won 73-65. (P

2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES

MINUTES: 35.0

POINTS: 12.8

REBOUNDS: 7.2

FG%: 40.6

FT%: 73.6

With the aging Shawn Marion and the free agent Caron Butler at SF, it's not set in stone that the Mavs won't need a SF in the draft.

Then, move to SG where they do run deep, but are still searching for that complete player.

Enter UCLA's Tyler Honeycutt and his ability to score, rebound, and use of court awareness to dish it around the horn.

Jason Kidd would approve. 

27. New Jersey Nets (From L.A. Lakers): Justin Harper, PF Richmond

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SAN ANTONIO, TX - MARCH 25: Justin Harper #32 of the Richmond Spiders drives against the Kansas Jayhawks during the southwest regional of the 2011 NCAA men's basketball tournament at the Alamodome on March 25, 2011 in San Antonio, Texas. Kansas defeated

2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES

MINUTES: 31.8

POINTS: 17.9

REBOUNDS: 6.9

FG%: 53.4

FT%: 79.7

For starters the Nets don't run too deep at PF, so adding a solid player such as Justin Harper will suffice.

He helped lead the Richmond Spiders to a NCAA Sweet 16 birth, so you can expect big things from him.

Don't be surprised if he ends up as a starter by mid-season, because his ability to score, rebound, and transition is better than decent.

28. Chicago Bulls (From Miami): Travis Leslie, SG Georgia

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ATLANTA, GA - MARCH 10: Travis Leslie #1 of the Georgia Bulldogs drives against the Auburn Tigers during the the first round of the SEC Men's Basketball Tournament at the Georgia Dome on March 10, 2011 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty I

2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES

MINUTES: 32.2

POINTS: 14.4

REBOUNDS: 7.2

FG%: 49.2

FT%: 80.1

The only thing that should keep the Bulls from pursuing to draft Travis Leslie is his inconsistency from downtown.

Otherwise, they're going to get a solid defender, great rebounder, and a man who can hold his own with Derrick Rose in transition.

29. San Antonio Spurs: JaJuan Johnson, PF/C Georgia Tech

Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images

CHICAGO, IL - MARCH 20: JaJuan Johnson #25 of the Purdue Boilermakers shoots against the Virginia Commonwealth Rams in the first half during the third round of the 2011 NCAA men's basketball tournament at the United Center on March 20, 2011 in Chicago, Il

2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES

MINUTES: 35.4

POINTS: 20.5

REBOUNDS: 8.6

FG%: 49.4

FT%: 80.9

Other than Antonio Mcdyss, the Spurs don't have another true center.

Well, JaJuan Johnson is about as close as they'll get at the end of the first round, but he's still solid in the paint.

In addition, Tim Duncan is due to retire sooner than later, so Johnson's versatility to play PF will be extremely helpful as well.

30. Chicago Bulls: Trey Thompkins, F Georgia

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ATLANTA, GA - MARCH 11: Trey Thompkins #33 of the Georgia Bulldogs celebrates after hitting a 3 point shot against the Alabama Crimson Tide during the quarterfinals of the SEC Men's Basketball Tournament at Georgia Dome on March 11, 2011 in Atlanta, Geor

2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES

MINUTES: 31.2

POINTS: 16.2

REBOUNDS: 7.6

FG%: 48.1

FT%: 68.9

At SF the Bulls could use a solid back-up for Luol Deng.

Carlos Boozer and Taj Gibson receive much of the work at PF, so adding Trey Thompkins behind Deng can only help.

He's very athletic and diverse, so even if coach Tom Thibodeau were to try him as a SG, it would definitely work to their advantage.