Anthony Davis is a virtual lock to go to the Hornets with the #1 overall pick. There’s no other player like him in this draft. Davis is a game changer on both ends of the floor and his ceiling is in the stratosphere.
The big questions begin with pick #2. The Bobcats lost out on Davis and now are left with a difficult choice between four or five talented but flawed prospects. Each of the following players has the talent to be an All Star but each player has unanswered questions about their game. History tells us that some will become stars and some will never live up to the hype.
The Bobcats, and owner Michael Jordan, will take a long look at former UNC star Harrison Barnes. Barnes has the kind of offensive skills that could make him a 25 PPG scorer and seems to have a game that will translate well to the NBA. But Barnes pulled a disappearing act in March and appeared hesitant, out of rhythm and lost on the court over the second half of the Tar Heels’ season. If he shines in individual workouts he could rise back up the draft boards and could go as high as #2 overall.
Michael Kidd-Gilchrist is another possibility at #2 or #3. Both the Bobcats and the Wizards could use his hustle and on the court leadership. MKG might not be a 20 PPG scorer but he has the type of all around game and winning attitude that make him a valuable player. He is probably a safer pick than Barnes but with a little less upside.
Thomas Robinson is another possibility at #2 or #3. He is a solid rebounder and developing offensive player but appears to have limited upside and is certainly a notch below PF prospects from previous years like Blake Griffin and Derrick Williams. I see Robinson as a top 5 or 6 pick but not a good value in the top 3.
Bradley Beal is a young shooting guard with a world of upside. He reminds me of Ray Allen and/or Latrell Sprewell (minus the attitude). He would be a great fit next to Kyrie Irving in the Cavs backcourt but could go as high as #3 and line up next to John Wall in Washington.
Andre Drummond has as much upside as any player in this draft but has a long way to go to reach his potential. A boom or bust type player who could flame out in five years or develop into a perennial all star. Drummond has legit Center size and explosive leaping ability. He comes with a certain amount of risk but big potential rewards. If the Bobcats or Wizards are not enamored with either of the Small Forward prospects, Drummond could surprise and get drafted in the top 3.
I would be surprised if these six players are not the first six players selected in the draft. They seem to be a cut above the rest of this year’s prospects. Which team will draft which player? – that remains a mystery, for now. Stay tuned.