2011 NBA Draft Big Board: Top 50 Prospects and Where They Could Be Headed
The NBA Draft is quickly approaching.
Everyone has their lists, whether they be mocks, big boards, or positional rankings.
Using previous information coupled with new research, I will rank the top-50 players in the 2011 draft class and determine their most likely destination. For the top-30 I will list at least two or three possible destinations for each player.
In the picture we have two of the top-50 in Kansas' Marcus Morris and Texas' Tristan Thompson, both players looking at snagging lottery spots.
Thanks for reading!
50. DeAndre Liggins
1 of 50
Most Likely Destination: Orlando Magic
The Orlando Magic could use a shooting guard for the 2011-'12 season, and maybe instead of shopping for one (since Jason Richardson is almost certainly gone), they could draft Liggins and hope for the best.
The Magic could really use a great perimeter defender as well, and Liggins fits the bill perfectly.
49. Jereme Richmond
2 of 50
Most Likely Destination: Los Angeles Clippers
If Richmond is selected by the Clippers, he could play an integral part of their future success.
He would fit in just perfectly with the Clips because he has a defensive-oriented mind, and the youthful roster could use a boost or two on that side of the hardwood.
When he is available at 47, Los Angeles will pounce.
48. Jimmy Butler
3 of 50
Most Likely Destination: Los Angeles Lakers
The Marquette Golden Eagle has been so infrequently mentioned amongst NBA draft junkies that he is considerably underrated.
He'll be a steal when the Lakers pick him with the 56th selection.
He is a great on-ball defender and has tremendous leadership skills additionally, something the Lakers could use for the future.
47. Iman Shumpert
4 of 50
Most Likely Destination: Atlanta Hawks
Ever since speculation has run wild about Kirk Hinrich possibly departing Atlanta, there has been talk of the Hawks finding their new man.
Well, they might have him here in Iman Shumpert.
He might immediately step in and contend with Jeff Teague for playing time, but that's obviously a big "if."
46. Charles Jenkins
5 of 50
Most Likely Destination: Dallas Mavericks
The Queens native might be able to provide some depth in the second round for the Dallas Mavericks, a team that will need it in the future.
45. Travis Leslie
6 of 50
Most Likely Destination: Chicago Bulls
The Chicago Bulls love physical athletes who bust their butts day after day.
Travis Leslie is a perfect example of a player who would be eager to face those challenges.
He has the tools to become a physical and impounding player in the NBA.
44. David Lighty
7 of 50
Most Likely Destination: Golden State Warriors
David Lighty might be a steal considering how quiet his draft stock is at the moment.
As for the Warriors, he'd finally provide a viable option off the bench for Dorrell Wright. He also would bring a balanced game, something Wright doesn't specialize in.
He's also a good defensive player, something Golden State isn't 100 percent certain even exists.
43. Andrew Goudelock
8 of 50
Most Likely Destination: Indiana Pacers
The Pacers could use an athletic combo guard like Andrew Goudelock, and they could take a chance on him with their second-round pick.
With T.J. Ford most likely on his way out, there's no reason to think that Goudelock will be passed on by Indiana.
42. Nikola Vucevic
9 of 50
Most Likely Destination: New Orleans Hornets
The New Orleans Hornets aren't exactly packed with bigs, and they could use a performer like Vucevic to mix in with their regulars.
Although Emeka Okafor had a fine season, it doesn't necessarily spell doom for the USC product if he is selected here.
Other teams like the Bucks and Bobcats might be interested as well.
41. Cory Joseph
10 of 50
Most Likely Destination: Los Angeles Lakers
Is it out of line to say that Cory Joseph is already a better point guard than the two who currently quarterback the system?
Nonetheless, the 20-year-old is a quick and versatile athlete who will be a steal for how low he is on the chart.
40. Nicola Mirotic
11 of 50
Most Likely Destination: Charlotte Bobcats
This 6-foot-10, 225-pound prospect is an amazing shooter, but it'll be interesting to see if Michael Jordan's team actually bites when they are on the clock.
Nicola Mirotic is a defensive liability, though, and that is something that has undoubtedly killed his draft stock.
39. Shelvin Mack
12 of 50
Most Likely Destination: Sacramento Kings
Shelvin Mack will be that guy in the early second round who is at the top of everyone's list.
Since he has proven he can become a legitimate backup, why not try him in the starters role in Sacramento?
It's a longshot, but it sure is a nice fit.
38. Malcolm Lee
13 of 50
Most Likely Destination: Milwaukee Bucks
The Milwaukee Bucks will need a shooting guard and/or depth come summer time, and Malcolm Lee could help fulfill one, or even both.
I could also see the Pacers, Bobcats, and Clippers chasing the UCLA product.
37. Keith Benson
14 of 50
Most Likely Destination: Houston Rockets
The Houston Rockets were one of the league's smallest teams this year.
With the absence of Yao Ming, there was a gaping hole in which only a big could fill, but the entire roster had only one player over 6-foot-10. At 6-foot-11 and weighing 220 pounds, Keith Benson would bring size and athleticism to the crew.
However, if he adds muscle by the end of June his stock could soar well into the first round.
36. Jordan Williams
15 of 50
Most Likely Destination: Los Angeles Clippers
Jordan Williams might be a nice fit for the Clippers if Chris Kaman dashes out of Los Angeles.
35. Jon Leuer
16 of 50
Most Likely Destination: Washington Wizards
The Wizards already have a plethora of mediocre bigs, but adding Jon Leuer to the mix might help out the rotation and release pressure in the post.
His jump shot and finesse will be greatly appreciated in our nation's capital.
34. JaJuan Johnson
17 of 50
Most Likely Destination: Detroit Pistons
JaJuan Johnson would help Detroit basketball move forth in a positive direction, and in turn, he could be a solid role player on a contending team in the future.
He is athletic and his talents will be put to use with the Pistons.
33. Chandler Parsons
18 of 50
Most Likely Destination: Cleveland Cavaliers
The Cavaliers need a real starting small forward, and Parsons, while perhaps not talented enough, could provide a spark off the bench at the 3-spot.
32. Reggie Jackson
19 of 50
Most Likely Destination: Chicago Bulls
We need to start giving this kid the credit he deserves as a great point guard.
I see him going 30th to the Chicago Bulls.
If I'm Chicago, I'm elated at the idea of having a legitimate backup to quarterback the offense when necessary.
The Celtics and Nets might also be interested.
31. Kyle Singler
20 of 50
Most Likely Destination: San Antonio Spurs
Although he has the size to mesh with the best, Kyle Singler still will be a mystery when he is placed on an NBA roster.
I'm not entirely sure where he can fit in with San Antonio, but the fact of the matter is that they need youth for their coming years. Singler might just be a small piece to the overall puzzle if selected.
Kyle Singler is youthful at 22, yet experienced—the perfect combination for a San Antonio Spur.
30. Norris Cole
21 of 50
Possibilities: Milwaukee Bucks, Miami Heat, New Jersey Nets, Dallas Mavericks
If Deron Williams stays on the Jersey Shore he'll need a legitimate backup, and Norris Cole could prove to be just that guy.
29. Nolan Smith
22 of 50
Possibilities: Boston Celtics, Miami Heat, Dallas Mavericks
Most Likely Destination: Dallas Mavericks
The Mavericks, while still a solid team, are aging, and Nolan Smith can provide youth, as well as experience.
Outside Kyle Singler, perhaps no other player in the class has that same experience.
In an unrelated matter, the Duke Blue Devils will be a mediocre team next season.
28. Jeremy Tyler
23 of 50
Possibilities: Milwaukee Bucks, Miami Heat, Boston Celtics
Most Likely Destination: Miami Heat
An excellent post player, Jeremy Tyler would be a great addition to the Heat frontcourt.
Besides, the only Miami player that plays offense down low is Chris Bosh, and Tyler could relieve him of some of the duties.
27. Darius Morris
24 of 50
Possibilities: Chicago Bulls, New Jersey Nets, Boston Celtics
Most Likely Destination: Boston Celtics
It's not like the Celtics need another point guard, but it's always nice to stock up for the future and have some viable insurance in Darius Morris.
If Delonte West is shopped this offseason, Morris could prove to be a legitimate backup.
In an unrelated note, Darius will be the third player in the first round selected with the surname "Morris." That has to be nearing some sort of record.
26. Markieff Morris
25 of 50
Possibilities: Houston Rockets, Portland Trail Blazers, Denver Nuggets, Chicago Bulls
Most Likely Destination: Portland Trail Blazers
Honestly, no post would be a tight fit for the Blazers right now. They have a future All-Star in LaMarcus Aldridge, an aging Marcus Camby and an injury-prone Greg Oden.
But, by way of default, Markieff Morris will be the best available, and there's no chance Portland passes up that kind of guy.
25. Josh Selby
26 of 50
Possibilities: San Antonio Spurs, Chicago Bulls, Houston Rockets, Oklahoma City Thunder
Most Likely Destination: Chicago Bulls
Despite all the question marks in his game, it should be noted that Josh Selby is a very intriguing draft prospect.
The Bulls could use a shooting guard, and regardless of whether they sign one this offseason, Selby could be their man. He's hardly 20 years old, after all.
The Spurs will be livid when the Bulls take their man.
24. Trey Thompkins
27 of 50
Possibilities: Dallas Mavericks, Oklahoma City Thunder, Boston Celtics
Do the Thunder need a player like Trey Thompkins? Probably not, but he could become a reliable backup to incumbent and up-and-coming Serge Ibaka.
23. Justin Harper
28 of 50
Possibilities: New Jersey Nets, Chicago Bulls, Houston Rockets
Most Likely Destination: New Jersey Nets
Justin Harper will be a great fit in New Jersey, mainly because he excels in nearly every facet of the power forward game. He could be one of the draft's biggest sleepers, something that might lead to him having a steal of a career as a Net. He has it in him to do just that.
And who knows, if incumbent Kris Humphries is dealt and Dwight Howard is brought in, won't Superman need a sidekick in the frontcourt?
22. Marshon Brooks
29 of 50
Possibilities: Chicago Bulls, Minnesota Timberwolves, Denver Nuggets, Houston Rockets
Most Likely Destination: Houston Rockets
Marshon Brooks is a streaming example of someone whose stock has been raised in the past weeks.
With the 23rd pick in the draft, the Houston Rockets would be stupid to pass up Brooks.
Even though they seem prepared at the 2 with Kevin Martin, the former Friar might be too good a professional to overlook.
21. Tobias Harris
30 of 50
Possibilities: Denver Nuggets, Charlotte Bobcats, Minnesota Timberwolves
Charlotte can use another athletic guy like Harris at the small forward position.
The Bobcats will be then loaded at the 3, having a trio of worthy players in Harris, Thomas and Dante Cunningham.
However, Tyrus Thomas is a similar player for Charlotte, so if the two are going to mesh together, they will need to work immensely during the preparation period.
20. Davis Bertans
31 of 50
Possibilities: Denver Nuggets, Minnesota Timberwolves, Washington Wizards
Most Likely Destination: Denver Nuggets
The Nuggets certainly aren't getting any younger in the post. Incumbent power forwards Kenyon Martin, 33, and Al Harrington, 31, are definitely on the downside, and it might be nice to bring a young talent like Bertans to join the mix.
Besides, his lack of defense compliments that of K-Mart and Danilo Galinari.
19. Chris Singleton
32 of 50
Possibilities: Houston Rockets, New York Knicks, Minnesota Timberwolves
Most Likely Destination: Minnesota Timberwolves
I can't tell how much of a bonus Singleton would be to the Timberwolves frontcourt. He provides everything that Michael Beasley, Kevin Love and Anthony Randolph can't do on the defensive end.
If he slips this far, and I believe he will, there is no way the T'Wolves don't pounce.
He is an absolutely perfect fit.
18. Marcus Morris
33 of 50
Possibilities: Indiana Pacers, Houston Rockets, New York Knicks
Most Likely Destination: Houston Rockets
The Houston Rockets are extremely thin at the small forward position, where really no one outside Chase Budinger is even decent at what they do.
The 6-foot-9, 218-pound Morris will be a solid fit in Houston, where there will be a new coach and a fresh start for all Rockets to prove to coach Kevin McHale that they have what it takes.
Does Marcus Morris have what it takes?
17. Kenneth Faried
34 of 50
Possibilities: Philadelphia 76ers, New York Knicks
Most Likely Destination: New York Knicks
The New York Knicks are in need of a defense-oriented center. Unfortunately, the only guy that fits the bill entirely (Bismack Biyombo) has already been taken, so the Knickerbockers will naturally take Faried. He is a good defensive player that certainly rebounds extraordinarily, so he's as close as you can get.
Faried will be a good fit in the Big Apple, mainly because his rebounding will definitely help the frontcourt, namely Amar'e Stoudemire, who isn't exactly Wilt Chamberlain when it comes to crashing the boards.
One last thing: this guy has a skill set similar to a certain Hall of Famer. Do you know who I'm talking about?
16. Tyler Honeycutt
35 of 50
Possibilities: New York Knicks, Philadelphia 76ers, Washington Wizards
Most Likely Destination: Washington Wizards
The Wizards, a little upset they didn't get luckier in the draft lottery, find a gem in Tyler Honeycutt, who perhaps will make those sour feelings disappear.
If he bulks up there is no question he is going to be an exciting player to watch in the association.
15. Donatas Motiejunas
36 of 50
Possibilities: Philadelphia 76ers, New York Knicks, Minnesota Timberwolves
Upset that Bismack Biyombo has already been taken, the Philadelphia 76ers make a good selection nonetheless in picking Donatas Motiejunas.
The Sixers have made it known that they need a big man. The soft Spencer Hawes just isn't doing it in the city of brotherly love.
14. Jimmer Fredette
37 of 50
Possibilities: New York Knicks, Utah Jazz, Phoenix Suns
Most Likely Destination: Utah Jazz
Jimmer would be a solid fit in Salt Lake City with the Jazz for a few reasons.
For one, he'd be playing right down the road from BYU, a place that already has fallen in love with him and his game.
Secondly, he has the ability to reach great heights in this league, something that people will sometimes doubt. You can't ignore the facts, though, and he has the potential to be an All-Star.
Last off, it would be perhaps the best destination to begin an illustrious career, seeing as the Jazz are in need of a point guard and Jimmer fits the bill. He complements incumbent defensive-minded starter Devin Harris very well.
13. Jordan Hamilton
38 of 50
Possibilities: Milwaukee Bucks, Indiana Pacers, Utah Jazz
Most Likely Destination: Indiana Pacers
The Indiana Pacers had a great season in 2010-'11, capped off by a postseason appearance.
However, there was a missing link—a young and consistent shooting guard.
Indiana, meet Jordan Hamilton, a young, consistent shooting guard.
12. Tristan Thompson
39 of 50
Possibilities: Detroit Pistons, Milwaukee Bucks, Golden State Warriors, New York Knicks
Most Likely Destination: Golden State Warriors
The Golden State Warriors aren't exactly strong inside, and the acquisition of David Lee has proven to be a wasted one.
Tristan Thompson, an all-around solid player, might be able to mend what needs to be fixed inside for Oakland's club.
11. Klay Thompson
40 of 50
Possibilities: Houston Rockets, Golden State Warriors, Utah Jazz, Milwaukee Bucks
Most Likely Destination: Milwaukee Bucks
One of the best perimeter players available in the draft, Klay Thompson is a good fit in Milwaukee, where depth at the 2 will be needed once Michael Redd skips town.
The Milwaukee Bucks will finally ditch decade-long mainstay Redd, who has only played 61 games in the past three seasons, in favor of the more youthful Thompson, a budding star out of Washington State.
10. Bismack Biyombo
41 of 50
Possibilities: Phoenix Suns, Golden State Warriors
Most Likely Destination: Phoenix Suns
Even after they miss out on Jimmer Fredette, the Phoenix Suns will still be selecting a gem in Bismack Biyombo.
And even though he's a mysterious draftee, Biyombo will prove to be a great pick for the boys in Arizona. He's an undeniable defensive force who will be tougher than nails in the NBA.
9. Jonas Valanciunas
42 of 50
Possibilities: Sacramento Kings, Toronto Raptors, Washington Wizards
Most Likely Destination: Sacramento Kings
Now that Terrence Jones has returned to Kentucky for his sophomore season, Jonas is the next best option for the Kings, especially if a few of the post players currently in Sacramento skip town. Chances are they might, too.
The center's quickness will be much appreciated if he took his talents to Sac town.
8. Kemba Walker
43 of 50
Possibilities: Milwaukee Bucks, Detroit Pistons, Sacramento Kings
Most Likely Destination: Detroit Pistons
The Detroit Pistons are trying to find themselves a new identity after a lost and forgotten 2010-'11 season. Kemba might be the perfect cornerstone to the renewed and rebuilding franchise.
This pick would most likely happen if Rodney Stuckey, an unrestricted free agent, is let go by the team.
If he can improve his decision making he could be a scary good pro.
7. Alec Burks
44 of 50
Possibilities: Detroit Pistons, Sacramento Kings, Milwaukee Bucks, Charlotte Bobcats
Most Likely Destination: Charlotte Bobcats
The Charlotte Bobcats are in search of a new identity, and Burks might be a big piece to them finding their true selves.
He might have a chance to start at the shooting guard spot immediately, pending the availability of incumbent Stephen Jackson this summer, who could be shopped league-wide if Burks is selected.
6. Jan Vesely
45 of 50
Possibilities: Washington Wizards, Cleveland Cavaliers, Toronto Raptors, Sacramento Kings
Most Likely Destination: Cleveland Cavaliers
The Cavs will find favor in this, the top Czech prospect in the 2011 draft.
He would fit in nicely with the club, and at 6-foot-11, he would give Cleveland much-needed help at the small forward position.
Looks like it will turn out to be a nice draft for the Cavaliers after all.
5. Brandon Knight
46 of 50
Possibilities: Toronto Raptors, Cleveland Cavaliers, Sacramento Kings, Detroit Pistons
Most Likely Destination: Toronto Raptors
Had the Cavaliers not selected Kyrie Irving with the first pick, Knight would have been their second selection undoubtedly.
If he slips to the fifth spot, there is no way the Raptors pass him over.
He's too good to ignore for Canada's club, who is in search of a franchise point guard.
Brandon Knight, the 6-foot-3, 177-pound wonder, might just be that.
4. Kawhi Leonard
47 of 50
Possibilities: Cleveland Cavaliers, Washington Wizards, Sacramento Kings
Most Likely Destination: Washington Wizards
The Washington Wizards would be thrilled to get a baller like Leonard with the sixth overall pick.
If they don't trade up to get Enes Kanter, the San Diego State product would be the right choice.
3. Enes Kanter
48 of 50
Possibilities: Utah Jazz, Minnesota Timberwolves, Toronto Raptors, Cleveland Cavaliers
Most Likely Destination: Minnesota Timberwolves (if they don't trade the pick)
The likelihood of the Minnesota Timberwolves keeping the second overall pick is lower than Death Valley, but even so, Kanter would be a better fit than Derrick Williams.
At least Kanter helps secure a gaping need. He has dominated European basketball the past few years and hopes to do the same in the USA.
2. Derrick Williams
49 of 50
Possibilities: Cleveland Cavaliers, Minnesota Timberwolves, Utah Jazz
Most Likely Destination: Utah Jazz
A newly christened 20-year-old (as of two weeks ago), Derrick Williams is perhaps the draft class' most intriguing prospect. He is ready to become a professional basketball player, and he has the biggest upside of anyone entering June's festivities.
Regardless of what the rumors say though, the Timberwolves aren't drafting Williams and trading Michael Beasley.
1. Kyrie Irving
50 of 50
Possibilities: Cleveland Cavaliers, Minnesota Timberwolves, Utah Jazz
Most likely destination: Cleveland Cavaliers
Do I even need to explain this?
He is no question the best player in the draft, and therefore, the Cavs will select him with the first overall pick.
Who cares if they have Baron Davis or Ramon Sessions; soon they will have Kyrie Irving and forget all previous troubles at the position.
