2011 NBA Mock Draft: Where Does Kemba Walker End Up?

There was no player in college basketball who was more important to their team than Kemba Walker was to Connecticut.

He was their lead-off hitter, clean-up hitter, starting pitcher, relief pitcher, and closer all rolled into one.

He was their up and coming quarterback with a Hall of Fame head coach in charge.

And, he has the tools to have great success in the association.

So, where will he end up?

Well, there's only one way to find out.

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

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CHARLOTTE, NC - MARCH 20: Kyrie Irving #1 of the Duke Blue Devils moves the ball 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

2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES

MINUTES: 27.5

POINTS: 17.5

ASSISTS: 4.3

FG%: 52.9

FT%: 90.1

Luck is on Cleveland's side as they landed the No. 1 overall pick.

The question is not how much potential Kyrie Irving has, because it is a lot.

But, more so on his health.

If it doesn't pan out for the Cavaliers, they're set back a few more years once again.

2. Minnesota Timberwolves: Derrick Williams, SF Arizona

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ANAHEIM, CA - MARCH 24: Derrick Williams #23 of the Arizona Wildcats reacts after defeating the Duke Blue Devils during the west regional semifinal of the 2011 NCAA men's basketball tournament at the Honda Center on March 24, 2011 in Anaheim, California.

2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES

MINUTES: 30.0

POINTS: 19.5

REBOUNDS: 8.3

FG%: 59.5

FT%: 74.6

Move rebound master Kevin Love to center, Michael Beasley to PF, and enter Derrick Williams at SF.

Then just sit back, and allow the youth of a nation in Minnesota's frontcourt to take-over.

Williams adds even more potential to a frontcourt with an already great amount, so it's a win-win.

3. Utah Jazz (From New Jersey): 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

If the Jazz are looking for that long-term replacement of Deron Williams, Kemba Walker has that much potential and more.

Not only will he create shots for himself, but he'll complement Gordon Hayward and Andrei Kirilenko very well.

As long as he doesn't get too trigger-happy, Utah could greatly benefit from Walker.

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

With Kyrie Irving running the point, having a guy like Enes Kanter down-low will allow the Cavs' to be multidimensional.

They could easily build their future around both players, and Kanter in the frontcourt makes room for a lot of potential.

Not to mention, he would be a solid upgrade from Anderson Varajao, Ryan Hollins, and Semih Erden.

5. Toronto Raptors: 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

In arguably the most difficult Eastern Conference division, the Raptors can make up some serious ground in 2011-12 with the addition of Brandon Knight.

He's very good at improving on the fly, as well as court awareness.

Rebuilding with him and DeMar DeRozan in the backcourt does bode well for the future.

6. Washington Wizards: Kawhi Leonard, SF San Diego State

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TUCSON, AZ - MARCH 19: Kawhi Leonard #15 of the San Diego State Aztecs dunks 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 Christian Petersen/

2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES

MINUTES: 32.6

POINTS: 15.5

REBOUNDS: 10.6

FG%: 44.4

FT%: 75.9

Even though the Wizards run deep at SF, no one really produced above average.

That said, Kawhi Leonard has the ability to produce from the get-go.

Combine him with PG John Wall and PF Andray Blatche, Washington is well on their way back to being playoff contenders.

7. Sacramento Kings: Bismack Biyombo, PF/C Congo

2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES

MINUTES: 17.0

POINTS: 6.4

REBOUNDS: 5.1

FG%: 56.1

FT%: 55.3

For starters, Sacramento could use some depth at center to go with Samuel Dalembert.

Also, is DeMarcus Cousins the long-term answer at PF?

Well, that's their cue to draft Bismack Biyombo, who has the ability to play either spot in the frontcourt.

In addition, he goes all out and is a very coachable player. So, his potential has no limit.

8. Detroit Pistons: Jonas Valanciunas PF/C Lithuania

2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES

MINUTES: 20.6

POINTS: 11.5

REBOUNDS: 7.3

FG%: 66.8

FT%: 78.1

Detroit needs a consistent all-around big man.

Ben Wallace is a stud on D, but lacks on offense.

Greg Monroe has solid potential, so pairing him with Jonas Valunciunas down-low could propel the Pistons in the right direction.

It will be interesting to see how Detroit takes on this summer both in the draft and free agency.

9. Charlotte Bobcats: Alec Burks, G Colorado

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KANSAS CITY, MO - MARCH 10: Alec Burks #10 of the Colorado Buffaloes stands on the court against the Kansas State Wildcats during their quarterfinal game in the 2011 Phillips 66 Big 12 Men's Basketball Tournament at Sprint Center on March 10, 2011 in Kan

2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES

MINUTES: 31.4

POINTS: 20.5

REBOUNDS: 6.5

FG%: 46.9

FT%: 82.5

Michael Jordan's Charlotte Bobcats are about one player away from being playoff contenders.

They're solid in the frontcourt with Kwame Brown and Boris Diaw.

So, bringing in Alec Burks to go along with PG D.J. Augustin, and their backcourt could make some noise.

Burks has great shooting ability and can draw fouls, which will be a solid acquisition to SG with Augustin at PG.

10. Milwaukee Bucks: 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

With an already decent frontcourt, Milwaukee could max out if they draft Marcus Morris.

There, you'll have Andrew Bogut at center, Richard Luc Mbah a Moute at SF, and now Morris at PF.

Morris is an effective scorer and can grab boards, while also being solid in transition.

Just what the Bucks need.

11. Golden State Warriors: 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

With Stephen Curry and Monta Ellis in the backcourt, and David Lee at PF, drafting Tristan Thompson and moving him to SF will do wonders.

It makes them bigger and overall, quicker for defense, and they don't lose a step offensively.

He would be a comfortable fit for Golden State, so Thompson to the Warriors is possible.

12. Utah Jazz: Jimmer Fredette, G BYU

Bob Levey/Getty Images

HOUSTON - APRIL 03: Jimmer Fredette of BYU received the 2011 Naismith Trophy Presented by AT&T at the NABC Guardians of the Game Awards Program on April 3, 2011 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Bob Levey/Getty Images)

2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES

MINUTES: 35.8

POINTS: 28.9

ASSISTS: 4.3

FG%: 45.2

FT%: 89.4

Even though he's a PG that has a shoot-first forte, backing up the aforementioned Kemba Walker at PG, and then Gordon Hayward at SG, Jimmer Fredette would play a significant role.

If Kemba needs a breather, he can fill in at PG, if Hayward needs a breather, or fills in at SF while Andrei Kirilenko takes a break, then Jimmer could move to SG.

Either way he'll work for Utah, and he'd also be a fan favorite since he's coming from BYU.

13. Phoenix Suns: Chris Singleton, SF Florida State

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ATLANTA - MARCH 13: Chris Singleton #31 of the Florida State Seminoles jogs down court against the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets during day two of the 2009 ACC Men's Basketball Tournament on March 13, 2009 at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo b

2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES

MINUTES: 29.1

POINTS: 13.1

REBOUNDS: 6.8

FG%: 43.4

FT%: 66.7

If the Phoenix Suns are to get back into the postseason, defense is a must.

Hence, Chris Singleton from Florida State.

He's excellent defending on and off the ball, and can defend both guard and forward positions. This would be especially helpful with Grant Hill and Vince Carter both being, well, old.

Singleton will add that much needed youth and energy to playing defensive basketball.

14. Houston Rockets: Nikola Mirotic, F Montenegro

2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES

MINUTES: 15.0

POINTS: 6.6

REBOUNDS: 3.3

FG %: 50.0

FT%: 85.7

The Rockets seem to be completely revamping as a franchise.

They have a new head coach, they traded Shane Battier, and need/will not re-sign Yao Ming.

Well, that new identity could begin with Nikola Mirotic.

His confidence has increased, which has made him more of a clutch shooter, which is something Houston really wanted to see more out of Tracy McGrady, but I digress.

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 second half against the Washington Huskies in the quarterfinals of the 2011 Pacific Life Pac-10 Men's Basketball Tournament at Staples Center on March 10, 2011 i

2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES

MINUTES: 34.7

POINTS: 21.6

REBOUNDS: 5.2

FG%: 43.6

FT%: 83.8

The versatility of Klay Thompson is what can really benefit the Indiana Pacers.

He would be a solid No. 2 guard, and could also fill in at SF when needed.

His addition would only make the Pacers that much better, and more dangerous to in-division rival, Chicago.

16. Philadelphia 76ers: Donatas Motiejunas, F Lithuania

2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES

MINUTES: 26.4

POINTS: 12.1

REBOUNDS: 5.0

FG%: 49.7

FT%: 66.75

The 76ers could use some improvement to the offense, as the defense is rather solid.

Drafting Donatas Motiejunas should boost the offense to over 100 points per game, but don't expect him to play much defense.

That said, he'll most likely be used more as a role player, but will still contribute a decent amount.

Now, if he gets over that mental hump and gives 100 percent each time out, then he could become a complete player.

17. New York Knicks: 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

The Knicks, although desperate for a center, will have to check free agency for that route.

However, adding talented depth at SG and SF will suffice through the draft with UCLA's Tyler Honeycutt.

He won't start, but would be great for coach Mike D'Antoni's offensive mindset.

18. Washington Wizards (From Atlanta): Iman Shumpert, G Georgia Tech

Streeter Lecka/Getty Images

GREENSBORO, NC - MARCH 10: Iman Shumpert #1 of the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets dribbles down the court during the second half of the game against the Virginia Tech Hokies in the first round of the 2011 ACC men's basketball tournament at the Greensboro Co

2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES

MINUTES: 32.0

POINTS: 17.3

REBOUNDS: 5.9

FG %: 40.6

FT %: 80.6

Although he's big a PG (6'4"), Iman Schumpert has the ability to play either guard position.

He's very quick with his first few steps, as well as lateral.

And, he'll be a part of a rebuilding process in Washington, but along with John Wall and previously drafted Kawhi Leonard, the Wizards will be fun to watch.

19. Charlotte Bobcats (From NOLA Via Portland): Markieff Morris, F Kansas

Tom Pennington/Getty Images

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

After drafting G Alec Burks ninth overall, Charlotte can make up even more ground by taking Markieff Morris No. 19 overall.

He'll add great depth to either forward position, and could make the Bobcats a defensive juggernaut.

Offensively, he just can't try to do too much, while also drawing more fouls.

20. Minnesota (From Memphis Via Utah): Josh Shelby, G Kansas

Ronald Martinez/Getty Images

TULSA, OK - MARCH 18: Josh Selby #32 of the Kansas Jayhawks goes up for a shot against the Boston University Terriers during the second round of the 2011 NCAA men's basketball tournament at BOK Center on March 18, 2011 in Tulsa, Oklahoma. (Photo by Rona

2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES

MINUTES: 20.4

POINTS: 7.9

ASSISTS: 2.2

FG%: 37.3

FT%: 75.7

The Timberwolves could use some talented depth at either guard position.

And adding Josh Shelby could only help.

As long as he cuts down on the turnovers, while maintaining his ability to score combined with his effort on D, Shelby will significantly help Minnesota.

21. Portland Trail Blazers: Kenneth Faried, PF Morehead State

Doug Pensinger/Getty Images

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

With the aging Marcus Camby at center, Portland may need to go small so that their youth can take over.

That said, the premier of Kenneth Faried will be interesting as he can play either forward position.

Thus, LaMarcus Aldridge may have to briefly takeover at center, until Greg Oden (if ever) gets healthy.

In any event, he'll keep their defense rolling while setting up the offense in transition with his great defensive play.

22. Denver Nuggets: Tobias Harris, PF Tennessee

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CHARLOTTE, NC - MARCH 18: Tobias Harris #12 of the Tennessee Volunteers shoots over Tim Hardaway Jr. #10 of the Michigan Wolverines in the first half during the second round of the 2011 NCAA men's basketball tournament at Time Warner Cable Arena on March

2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES

MINUTES: 29.2

POINTS: 15.3

REBOUNDS: 7.3

FG%: 46.0

FT%: 75.3

Since Tobias Harris is a bit undersized at PF, making the adjustment to SF in Denver will work.

They do need depth there, and if need be, he can play PF as well.

Either way, Harris will be a good pick for the Nuggets who have solid momentum heading into next season.

23. Houston Rockets (From Orlando Via Phoenix): Jordan Hamilton, SG/SF Texas

Tom Pennington/Getty Images

TULSA, OK - MARCH 20: Jordan Hamilton #3 of the Texas Longhorns reacts at the end of 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. (Photo by T

2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES

MINUTES: 32.2

POINTS: 18.6

REBOUNDS: 7.7

FG%: 44.0

FT%: 77.9

Previously mentioned was the change of direction in the Houston Rockets franchise.

Drafting Nikola Mirtotic was the first step, so now Jordan Hamilton becomes the second.

Now, however, he has the ability to play either SG or SF, and chances are they'll need him more as a SG for depth and talent.

At SF is Chase Budinger and Terrence Williams, so utilizing Hamilton at SG will help in the backcourt.

24. Oklahoma City Thunder: Malcolm Lee, SG UCLA

Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images

TAMPA, FL - MARCH 17: Malcolm Lee #3 of the UCLA Bruins reacts after UCLA held on to win 78-76 against Michigan State Spartans during the second round of the 2011 NCAA men's basketball tournament at St. Pete Times Forum on March 17, 2011 in Tampa, Florid

2010-11 SEASON STATISTICS

MINUTES: 33.1

POINTS: 13.1

REBOUNDS: 3.1

FG%: 43.7

FT%: 77.8

If the Thunder are weak at any position, it's SG.

There they run deep, but lack a complete No. 2 guard to complement Russell Westbrook and Kevin Durant.

Malcolm Lee is a decent defender, but an ever better shooter.

As long as he can become more consistent, OKC can make another run at the Western Conference title. 

25. Boston Celtics: Lucas Nogueira, C Brazil

2010 SEASON AVERAGES

MINUTES: 24.4

POINTS: 15.6

REBOUNDS: 10.0

FG%: 74.4

FT%: 70.0

Although the Celtics are old with Kevin Garnett, Paul Pierce and Ray Allen, they can still ball it up all day.

That being said, there is a definite need of a stud center.

Well, the services of Lucas Nogueira can fill the void.

He can play very well on either side, but the only question is his ego since he doesn't always give 100 percent.

26. Dallas Mavericks: Nolan Smith, G Duke

Harry How/Getty Images

ANAHEIM, CA - MARCH 24: Nolan Smith #2 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: 34.0

POINTS: 20.6

ASSISTS: 5.1

FG%: 45.8

FT%: 81.3

Although he can use some improvement on defense, Nolan Smith would be a great addition to the Mavericks.

They do have nice depth at SG, but could revamp it with Smith.

Not to mention, Smith would also be a solid fill-in at PG if needed.

27. New Jersey (From L.A. Lakers): Keith Benson, PF/C Oakland

Ronald Martinez/Getty Images

TULSA, OK - MARCH 18: Keith Benson #34 of the Oakland Golden Grizzlies goes up for a shot against Alexis Wangmene #20 of the Texas Longhorns during the second round game of the 2011 NCAA men's basketball tournament at BOK Center on March 18, 2011 in Tuls

2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES

MINUTES: 32.4

POINTS: 17.9

REBOUNDS: 10.1

FG%: 54.7

FT%: 64.3

Whether at PF or center, Keith Benson in New Jersey would significantly help out PG Deron Williams.

Overall, the Nets are decent with Anthony Morrow at SG and Travis Outlaw at SF, so taking advantage of Benson's versatility is crucial.

And, if they use it to wisely, New Jersey could make a playoff run next season.

28. Chicago Bulls (From Miami Via Toronto): Travis Leslie, SG/SF Georgia

Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images

CHARLOTTE, NC - MARCH 18: Travis Leslie #1 of the Georgia Bulldogs dunks the ball in the first half while taking on the Washington Huskies during the second round of the 2011 NCAA men's basketball tournament at Time Warner Cable Arena on March 18, 2011 i

2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES

MINUTES: 32.2

POINTS: 14.4

REBOUNDS: 7.2

FG%: 49.2

FT%: 80.1

Chicago needs a complete SG and depth behind Luol Deng at SF.

Enter Travis Leslie and his ability to adapt and adjust on the court.

He transitions well, is very explosive, all while being able to have great body control.

The weakness is when he starts thinking as opposed to reacting, but with Derrick Rose's speed, he won't have a choice but to react.

29. San Antonio Spurs: Trey Thompkins, PF 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

Whether Spurs fans like to realize it or not, Tim Duncan is going to retire sooner than later.

So with that said, a young and prosperous PF will be needed to fill the gaping whole in San Antonio.

Georgia's Trey Thompkins can very well be that guy, because he's comfortable whether inside or out.

And once he develops that mid-range J, he'll only make the Spurs that much better.

30. Chicago Bulls: Terrence Jones, SF Kentucky

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HOUSTON, TX - APRIL 02: Terrence Jones #3 of the Kentucky Wildcats goes to the hoop against 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 Housto

2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES

MINUTES: 31.7

POINTS: 15.7

REBOUNDS: 8.8

FG%: 44.2

FT%: 64.6

If the Bulls draft Travis Leslie two spots prior, and then go in the direction of Terrence Jones, chances are Rasual Butler won't be re-signed.

That said, however, it only makes them younger and faster, but also less experienced.

BUT, Jones has a high ceiling of potential, and Luol Deng needs a back-up who can hit the ground running.