2012 NBA Mock Draft – Projected Top 5 Picks: The ping pong balls have spoken, and the 2012 NBA draft lottery has set the top 14 picks for the upcoming draft. Conspiracy theorists were out in droves after the NBA-owned New Orleans Hornets landed the top pick, despite having just the fourth-best odds to do so. In fact, rumors about a rigged lottery have trumped the actual results and picking order in the early going, but it’s not hard to understand why. On the heels of David Stern’s decision to ship Chris Paul from New Orleans to the Los Angeles Clippers instead of the Lakers, the NBA draft lottery results called the integrity of the commissioner even further into question.
Whether it really was a predetermined plan or just a coincidence, the Hornets have the top pick, and the only thing left for teams to do is start scouting potential picks. After all, June 28 will be here in no time. Here is a first look at the potential top five picks in the 2012 NBA Draft.
2012 NBA Mock Draft: Projected Top 5 Picks
1. New Orleans Hornets, Anthony Davis, Power Forward, Kentucky
There has been little question about who the No. 1 pick would be for several months now. Davis’ defensive presence and shot blocking ability alone would have made him a contender for the top pick. The fact that he is a freakish athlete with a soft jumper, ball handling skills and a developing post game makes Davis a no-brainer as the No. 1 selection. He needs to bulk up a bit, but at just 19 years old, Davis will have plenty of time for that. In the meantime, the Hornets will get an impact player on both ends of the court. Davis has one of the most unique skill sets of any big man in recent memory, and he has future franchise player written all over him.
2. Charlotte Bobcats, Thomas Robinson, Power Forward, Kansas
After compiling the worst winning percentage in a single season in NBA history, the Bobcats can’t afford to gamble on potential and miss as they have seemingly every year since Michael Jordan joined the front office. Robinson doesn’t have the highest ceiling, but he is an NBA-ready power forward with zero concerns about his work ethic and attitude. After leading the country in double-doubles at Kansas last year, Robinson is just what the doctor ordered for a Charlotte bunch that ranked dead last in scoring and second last in rebounding last season. With above average athleticism, an improving mid-range game and a variety of post moves, Robinson is the sure-fire contributor the Bobcats need.
3. Washington Wizards, Michael Kidd-Gilchrist, Small Forward, Kentucky
Washington’s situation at small forward isn’t pretty. Chris Singleton is more of a defensive specialist, Trevor Booker is too slow to defend the position, and Rashard Lewis was on his last leg two seasons ago. Enter Kidd-Gilchrist, who brings athleticism, intensity and a ton of upside to the table. His ability to run the floor will fit perfectly alongside speedy point guard John Wall, and while he develops his outside shot, Kidd-Gilchrist will provide production on the glass and on the defensive end. He is the type of player that is going to maximize his potential, and he is a potential future team leader of the Washington franchise.
4. Cleveland Cavaliers, Andre Drummond, Center, Connecticut
There are questions about Drummond’s work ethic, but true centers with his athleticism and build just don’t come along enough for Cleveland to pass on him. Drummond should help on the boards immediately, and his presence in the paint will improve the Cavaliers’ defense. He runs the floor well for his size, and point guard Kyrie Irvin will get Drummond the ball at spots where he can finish around the rim. The addition of Drummond will also allow the athletic Tristan Thompson to move to his more natural position of power forward, creating the ground work for a strong frontcourt. If Drummond develops an above average post game, it will just be icing on the cake for Cleveland.
5. Sacramento Kings, Perry Jones III, Power Forward, Baylor
Sacramento has been known to take some chances in the first round, and Jones is one of the biggest question marks in this draft. He has a freakish combination of size, athleticism, ball handling and range, but what he lacks, is consistent effort and heart. While it may or may not be impossible to harness Jones’ potential, the Kings have consistently been willing to take the risk. For a team that allowed the most points in the NBA last season and had the worst shooting percentage from 3-point range, Jones’ ability to defend multiple positions and score from the perimeter should help immediately. At worst, he is an NBA-caliber starting forward. At best, he uses his all-around skill set to become a Kevin Garnett-type player.
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