| 1. |  | Anthony Davis 6-10 222 PF Kentucky Fr. | Davis gives the Hornets and their new ownership a face of the franchise and optimism for the future. He oozes upside and while he may not be an immediate star at the NBA level, many talent evaluators see a potential superstar in the making. His jaw dropping physical attributes combined with a high motor should allow him to overcome a lack of physical strength. If there is a "savior" in this draft, odds are it’s Davis. With the improvement that he showed offensively, he left little doubt about who the top prospect in this year’s draft was. Davis impacts the game on both ends with his length and energy. He oozes potential with his long, wiry, underdeveloped body combined with his speed and athleticism. His shot shows excellent form and his post skills are showing improvement. He still needs to bulk up, but he plays tough regardless. Davis has an almost unfair combination of length, reflexes and intensity. He should become a defensive enforcer at the NBA level and if he can bulk up and develop a post game, the sky is the limit. NBA Comparison: Kevin Garnett | |
| 2. |  |  | Thomas Robinson 6-9 244 SF/PF Kansas Jr. | If Charlotte keeps the pick, it’s looking more and more likely that Robinson will be the pick. But there’s still a very good chance they move it, which will shake things up. Barnes and Beal are still said to be in the mix, but Robinson has the best stock portfolio having led the Jayhawks to the National title game. The Jayhawk standout really impressed scouts this season with his added face the basket skills. Robinson also measured well at 6’9 in shoes and with a huge (7’3) wingspan. The junior played with great energy all season, and there is no questioning his heart. Robinson is a big that a team will be able to select and be sure he gives them everything he has. Just how much potential Robinson has is what scouts question. NBA Comparison: Derrick Williams |
| 3. |  |  | Bradley Beal 6-4 202 SG Florida Fr. | Washington trading for Okafor and Ariza points towards the Wizards using their 3rd pick on Bradley Beal. Beal has been compared to Eric Gordon but lacks the strength and explosiveness that the former Hoosier showed in high school and college. But Beal has a more well rounded game. More than just a spot-up threat, Beal can change directions, pull back and shoot off the dribble. He’s also an excellent passer for a 2-guard. He’s a solid ball handler but not the type that can break defenders down the create scoring opportunities. At times, he struggles to create shots and his shooting numbers were somewhat inconsistent. But Beal really turned things up at the end of the season and has been very impressive on the individual workout circuit. NBA Comparison: Eric Gordon |
| 4. |  |  | Harrison Barnes 6-8 228 SF UNC So. | Cleveland appears to have Beal and Barnes highest on their wish list, and may even consider moving up to 2 to grab Beal, dealing the 24th pick to make it happen. Barnes is a solid individual and while he may lack great leadership abilities he would be a good fit along with high school friend Kyrie Irving. After Davis, Barnes might be the surest bet in the entire draft class. With good size and a high, clean release on his jumper, Barnes should excel at the next level in catch and shoot situations. He also surprised with his athleticism numbers. His high basketball IQ and strong character make him a GM’s wet dream, and a potential cornerstone at the small forward position for all of his suitors. NBA Comparison: Glen Rice |
| 5. |  |  | Michael Kidd-Gilchrist 6-7 233 SF Kentucky Fr. | MKG would add leadership, maturity and character to a Kings team lacking in those characteristics. Kidd-Gilchrist was as good as any college player in the nation last year (including Davis). But he may get drafted too high and the expectations will be difficult for him to fulfill. He lacks tremendous upside due to his offensive shortcomings with mechanical kinks in his shot. He shot below 20% from the field on jumpshots. A strong 6’7 forward with substantial length (7-foot wingspan) and athleticism, Gilchrist projects as a shutdown defender at the 3 position. He may not be your most adept shot-creator, but nobody plays with a higher motor. With strong character and a team-first mentality, NBA coaches will love what this kid brings to the table. MKG proved all year that he never takes a play off. NBA Comparison: Gerald Wallace |
| 6. |  |  | Andre Drummond 6-11 279 PF/C UConn Fr. | After the tragic career path that Greg Oden has taken, the Blazers might be gunshy to select Drummond should he be available. Damian Lillard is considered a strong possibility here even if Drummond is on the board. Andre is the biggest boom or bust pick in the entire draft. He has incredible talent, but questionable focus and passion for the game. An absolute physical specimen, there isn’t a prospect on the high school/college level even close to matching his physical attributes (strength/athleticism). The risk potential is high as he could turn into a bust, as his passion for the game has been questioned and he didn’t put up monster stats as a freshman. An absolute physical specimen with incredible mobility and athleticism for a player his size. At 6-foot-11 270 lbs, Drummond was said to be the fastest player on the UConn team. Unfortunately his motor runs hot and cold, and his body language is not great leaving many wondering whether he will live up to his vast potential. NBA Comparison: Amar’e Stoudemire |
| 7. |  |  | Terrence Ross 6-7 197 SG Washington So. | Unlike last year when everyone knew exactly who the Warriors were targeting, Klay Thompson, this year GM Bob Myers has shrewdly kept it a mystery. It’s no secret this team needs a 3 and would love to see either MKG or Harrison Barnes slide to them. Ross is a talent with a legitimate chance to be the top wing prospect from this year’s draft class. He’s had tremendous workouts, so if the team really likes him it could be a risk to trade down 4-5 spots in the hopes of getting him. Ross is dangerous from outside, where he sports a clean release and sweet rhythm in catch and shoot opportunities. A smooth wing with NBA athleticism, Ross does an excellent job at stretching the floor by recognizing and occupying open space. He also shows a nice ability to pull up for mid-range shots. Ross’ strong finish to the season only helps his cause. NBA Comparison: Eddie Jones |
| 8. |  |  | Jeremy Lamb 6-5 179 SG/SF UConn So. | GM Bryan Colangelo and the Raptors are said to be extremely high on Jeremy Lamb who would allow them to move Derozan to the SF position. UConn faded, barely making the tourney and bowing out in the first round. How much of the blame should be placed on Lamb depends on who you ask. He has more potential than Bradley Beal, but his disappearing act has left his stock in doubt. Lamb was unable to take over (for Kemba Walker) as the team’s much needed vocal leader. But many are quick to forget that Lamb was as instrumental in last year’s tournament run as Kemba. He needs to get tougher both mentally and physically as he avoids contact and can be thrown off his game by bigger, stronger opponents that get physical with him. He remains one of the most intriguing prospects in this year’s draft, but his lack of consistency, vocal leadership and assertiveness has dropped his stock some. NBA Comparison: Reggie Miller |
| 9. |  |  | Meyers Leonard 7-1 250 C Illinois So. | Meyers Leonard lacks the NBA readiness and polish of someone like Tyler Zeller, but scouts are convinced that he has more upside. Leonard is one the draft’s biggest boom or bust players. And there’s a real chance he will end up realizing his potential in his second contact, with his second team. Despite Illinois’ collapse, Leonard remains a highly sought after prospect. He’s a fluid bigman with great size and ability to add strength. He’s still a work in progress and would have benefited from another year of development in college, but his upside is enough where he will get looks in the late lottery based on his upside. His jump in production from his FR to SO years was tremendous. NBA Comparison: Robin Lopez |
| 10. |  |  | Damian Lillard 6-3 189 PG Weber St. Jr. | Lillard could go as high as 5 or 6 with Portland being a strong possibility as well as Toronto at 8. If Lillard is gone, Rivers is also considered a possibility here. Lillard is the top PG available this year and would be an excellent addition along with #1 pick Anthony Davis. While his point guard abilities are debatable, Lillard is a tremendous athlete with size and a wet jumpshot. He’s a late bloomer who has a work ethic that many high profile prospects are lacking. Right now a better scorer than distributor, but shows a good feel for the game and makes good decisions. NBA Comparison: Jay Williams |
| 11. | |  | Austin Rivers 6-5 203 PG/SG Duke Fr. | If Portland indeed pulls the trigger on Drummond, they will hope that Lillard somehow slides to them here. Rivers is a combo who some teams might envision playing the point, but probably will be more effective as a 2. He measured well at 6’5 and is such an intense competitor and cerebral decision maker that it’s difficult to imagine him becoming a bust. His ISO ability is his bread and butter as he’s nearly impossible to stay in front of. He will also excel in pick and roll situations and is tremendous at splitting double teams with his yo-yo handle. On top of that, he’s a gym rat that will outwork the competition. If he can develop into a PG, he could be a steal, and has a chance to go as high as mid lotto. NBA Comparison OJ Mayo |
| 12. |  |  | Tyler Zeller 7-0 247 PF/C North Carolina Sr. | After moving Andrew Bogut in the trade that brought them Monta Ellis, Milwaukee would likely pounce on Zeller if he’s available here. It’s also possible that the team will draft for upside (Zeller’s teammate John Henson is a possibility) but with their current backcourt, adding some stability might be in order. Though Tyler has had injury concerns in his own right, he is younger and runs the floor exceptionally well, which would fit their jet quick backcourt. Zeller has a nice package of size and skills. He runs the floor exceptionally well for a 7-footer. He has a good feel for the game and gets strong reviews from NBA scouts. NBA Comparison: PJ Brown |
| 13. |  |  | Dion Waiters 6-4 221 SG Syracuse So. | Waiters is rumored to have a promise after shutting down workouts, and with the need for a 2-guard, Portland could be the team. Waiters was the nation’s top 6th man and could be used in a similar role with the T-Wolves as an instant offense 2-guard off the bench. The Philly native is one of the draft’s enigmas. Some love his strength, aggressiveness and ability to create offense off the dribble, while other see a player lacking a true position. Coming off the bench for Syracuse, Waiters proved to be a dynamic, instant offense type of player. Waiters is a little undersized at 6’4 and lacks point guard skills, but is able to overpower opponents with his sheer strength. He’s very good in the open floor with tremendous finishing ability and is an intriguing go-to scorer. NBA Comparison: Dominique Jones |
| 14. |  |  | John Henson 6-10 216 PF UNC Jr. | Houston takes an opportunist’s approach to the draft looking for assets more so than drafting for need as their "wheeler dealer" GM Daryl Morey is constantly looking to make moves via trade. Henson showed a lot of improvement between his sophomore and junior seasons. His length and energy make him a disruptive presence on the defensive end of the floor, and a solid rebounder despite lacking great strength. If he can bulk up (BIG IF), it will help his ability to play inside at the next level considerably. Despite all the positives, it’s difficult to know whether he can become more then an energy player that brings rebounding and defense. Henson could go as high as 9 to Detroit, or fall into the late teens. NBA Comparison: Samuel Dalembert |
| 15. |  |  | Arnett Moultrie 6-11 233 PF Miss St. Jr. | The Sixers are sitting in a great spot with the first non-lottery pick after making a deep run in the playoffs. They are in a position to add a quality player with solid depth in this year’s draft. They went big with Nikola Vucevic last year and could look to bolster their frontcourt once again with a player like Moultrie. One of the most athletic bigs in the country, Moultrie is a force on the glass and scores in a variety of ways. He can even step out and bury college three pointers. With great length and agility, Moultrie is an intriguing option for teams looking for size and athleticism. The two big complaints about him are his attitude and lack of strength. His intensity level is not always great, particularly on the defensive end. He also seems to be under 230 lbs, but appears to have the frame to add weight once he gets with NBA trainers. Moultrie is getting looks in the late lottery to mid first round. NBA Comparison: Jordan Hill |
| 16. | |  | Royce White 6-8 261 SF/PF Iowa St. So. | This pick could easily be traded and Boston could be a team that ends up moving up for White. Royce White has top 10 talent in this class but the concerns about his anxiety disorder may still drop him to the late first/early second round area. Scouts also question his shooting and ability to fit a position. He’s a unique player as he’s beast with great strength with the ability to handle and pass like a guard. The one big concern is his anxiety disorder that has prevented him from flying in the past. NBA Comparison: Anthony Mason |
| 17. |  |  | Kendall Marshall 6-4 198 PG North Carolina So. | Marshall is possibly the best passer college basketball has seen since Jason Kidd, and with Kidd quickly approaching 40 the team could look at Marshall, as insurance in case they aren’t able to woo Deron Williams away from Brooklyn in free agency. Marshall’s ability to find teammates and create shots for them is special. He also has a tremendous feel for the game and has the type of natural point guard instincts that just can’t be learned. Still, his shortcomings athletically, defensively and as a scorer make him less than a sure thing. He could go anywhere from mid-lotto to early 20s. NBA Comparison Mark Jackson |
| 18. |  |  | Moe Harkless 6-8 207 SF St. John’s Fr. | Moe is not expected to have an immediate impact, but could ultimately end up one of the top 10 players from this draft class. Harkless is a raw forward but had a tremendous freshman season. His length and fluidity remind some of Rudy Gay, and while Moe can’t shoot it like the former Husky, his upside is considerable. He has a 7-2 wingspan and runs the floor like a gazelle. If he can and tighten up his jumper and handle plus develop better ISO skills, he could be a handful. He has late lottery potential just based on his upside. NBA Comparison: James Posey |
| 19. |  |  | Perry Jones 6-11 234 SF/PF Baylor So. | According to scouts, Jones could be one of the draft’s real sliders on draft night. 19 is obviously extremely low for such an immense talent, but there are major concerns that Jones won’t realize his potential. But paired with a great bigman like Howard, Jones could turn into something special. On highlights alone, you would think he is a future perennial All Star. From a talent standpoint he’s got everything you would want from a prospect. He’s got size, speed, athleticism, and the ability to shoot. But he always leaves you wanting more, never seeming able to play up to his abilities when it matters most. His sophomore statistics look eerily similar to his freshman numbers. Jones has jaw dropping physical attributes, but seems to have a hard time flipping the switch from his nice guy off court persona. NBA Comparison: Tim Thomas |
| 20. |  |  | Terrence Jones 6-9 252 SF/PF Kentucky So. | Nuggets coach George karl does a solid job of exploiting mismatches, and that’s exactly what Terrence Jones could bring to the table. T-Jones has top 10 talent but struggled with consistency and focus. He has had a few games, Indiana for instance, that have left scouts scratching their heads. Jones seems to play with a chip on his shoulder and a scowl on his face. He has the versatility to play either forward position and an aggressive rebounder. But the drawback is that he isn’t a natural fit at either position. While lacking great shooting mechanics, he is an effective scorer attacking the basket as well as from the perimeter. NBA Comparison: Marvin Williams |
| 21. |  |  | Jared Sullinger 6-9 268 PF Ohio St. So. | Sullinger could be one of the big sliders on draft night after NBA doctors red flagged his back. He began the year as a projected top 5 pick, but failed to show much progress in his sophomore season and doubts began to creep in scout’s minds about his upside and dedication to staying in shape. He has an extremely polished post game having led the Buckeyes to the Final Four. Sullinger possesses arguably the most refined post game in college hoops, sporting advanced footwork and a great feel for his defender’s positioning with his back to the basket. His weaknesses are clear, starting with his limited speed and athleticism at the power forward position. He had a rough sophomore year battling the injury bug. He was exposed some with his inability to get shots against long defenders such as Kansas’ Jeff Withey. Regardless, he is effective down low both as a scorer and rebounder. NBA Comparison: Carlos Boozer |
| 22. | |  | Marquis Teague 6-2 180 PG Kentucky Fr. | We hear that Houston is targeting Teague and could take him 16th pick, or look to move back for him. There a good chance that Boston trades this pick to move up (For Austin Rivers or Royce White). So this pick (or 21) could easily be made by a team other than Boston. Teague struggled as a floor general at times at UK, he came through when it matter with a solid tourney showing. Teague drew criticism from UK Nation after a rough start to the year. But his play in the tournament helped erase that some and has him back in the first round picture. He has ideal physical tools for a point guard, possessing size, quickness and explosiveness along with a "ball on a string" handle. His blinding first step makes him extremely difficult to stay in front of. NBA Comparison: Jeff Teague |
| 23. |  |  | Jeffery Taylor 6-7 213 SF Vanderbilt Jr. | Taylor’s defensive ability is what teams are most intrigued with. Taylor grew up in Sweden as the son of a pro player. His feel for the game has been a work in progress but he really turned the corner in his senior season. Jeff raised his stock considerably with more consistent play, particularly down the stretch. He’s developed his ability to create and established more consistency shooting. He’s got NBA athleticism with above average explosiveness and shows a willingness to be coached and improve his game. NBA Comparison: Thabo Sefolosha |
| 24. | |  | Andrew Nicholson 6-10 234 PF St. Bonnaventure Sr. | Nicholson is a late bloomer with a lot of upside left, despite being a senior. He came on late in the season leading the Bonnie’s to a surprise NCAA bid. Nicholson struggled to play to his abilities for much of his senior year. He’s a bright kid, and high character guy who despite looking robotic running the floor has good athleticism and a developing skill set. The Canadian’s huge hands and long arms make him a load on the block for opposing bigmen. With strong workouts should solidify a place in the mid/late first round. NBA Comparison: Craig Brackins |
| 25. |  |  | Will Barton 6-6 174 SG/SF Memphis So. | With uncertainty at the SG position (OJ Mayo possibly on the move), Memphis would like to grab some insurance here with this pick. A player who could potentially be a contributor from jump street like Barton would fill the need, and also help fill some seats being a local product. While some scouts aren’t sold on him, the scrappy Barton has been on the move lately according to GMs and scouts. He’s a high energy/effort player with an unorthodox, yet effective game. His ability to create shots and hit the boards brings an element to the table that many other SG prospects are not able to match. |
| 26. |  |  | Doron Lamb 6-4 199 SG Kentucky So. | Indiana is in solid shape in terms of team need with a balanced roster, so they could look to add depth to their backcourt with someone like Lamb. Doron Lamb’s overall skill set was not fully utilized playing on such a loaded team, and it will likely make him a steal for some team on draft night. He was arguably UK’s most consistent performer this season, and stepped up in the tournament. Every time the team needed a big basket, Lamb answered the call. He’s a clutch performer, has underrated PG ability and is an excellent teammate. Finding a niche at the next level should be his primary focus, with "lights out shooting combo-guard" a realistic role to think about. |
| 27. |  |  | Fab Melo 7-0 255 C Syracuse So. | Coming off their LeBron’s first championship the team could look to add immediate help or size. Fab has potential, but may be a few years away from being a solid contributor. Melo could be a yin to Roy Hibbert’s yang offering defense and athleticism when Hibbert leaves the game. Melo intrigues scouts with his size, mobility and shot blocking ability. His offensive game is very raw, but at times he looked comfortable knocking down mid-range shots. Stands a good chance of grabbing a late first round spot. NBA Comparison: Brendan Haywood |
| 28. |  |  | Khris Middleton 6-8 216 SF Texas A&M Jr. | The SG position is a very deep one with players like Will Barton and Evan Fournier likely competing with Middleton for late first round spots. Khris struggled during his junior season but has impressed in workouts. He measured extremely well at 6’8 and shows a solid frame. Middleton’s ability to knock down shots is what gives him the most intrigue. Combine that with excellent size and it’s no wonder he’s getting first round love. NBA Comparison: Gordon Hayward |
| 29. |  |  | John Jenkins 6-4 212 SG Vanderbilt Jr. | The Bulls could use a premiere shooter in their backcourt. Imagine how difficult it would be for teams to account for both Kyle Korver and the nation’s top college shooter John Jenkins playing alongside Derrick Rose on the perimeter. He expanded his all around game with improved ball handling and also measured well with a 6’8.5 wingspan and added upper body strength. He’s an undersized 2 and lacks elite athleticism, but his versatility and deadly outside shooting will give him a role in the NBA. NBA Comparison: JJ Redick |
| 30. | |  | Quincy Miller 6-10 219 SF Baylor Fr. | Q was once considered a top 5 player in a very strong high school class before tearing his ACL. He then looked like a shadow of his former self athletically as a freshman at Baylor. He’s got a huge wingspan and the ability to knock down mid range jumpshots. If his knee checks out completely in physicals, look for him to grab a spot in the 20s. NBA Comparison: Austin Daye |
Puzzling…
Why is Thomas Robinson listed as SF/PF?
Mock Draft Is wack
The Bulls are trying to trade up into the lottery they have offered Noah and or Deng as trade bait. So why would they draft a guy compared to Redick when everyone knows the bulls need someone besides for Rose who can create his own shot. If Royce or Ezel is avaible at the 29th Pick you can bet your ass chicago takes one or the other. If they move up into the high lottery look form them to take an impact 2 or 3………………..
Am I the only one who don’t
Am I the only one who don’t like making a comparison with a guy who just finished his rookie season?
Agreed
So true! 90% of the rookies in the league haven’t nearly tapped into their potential. If you go to the 2013 mock they have Shabazz Muhammad’s NBA comparison as Michael Kidd-Gilchrist. He isn’t even in the NBA yet!
Yuck
How can I get excited about picking Moultrie at 15 when the guy he is compared to is terrible and would be no better than a 2nd rounder ??????? Nice to see white moving up
Are you sure that your
Are you sure that your descriptions are accurate? For example you say that Barnes is Irving’s high school friend instead of MKG and concerning Sacramento’s pick (MKG) you talk about Cleveland, not Sacramento.
The Dion Waiters write up
The Dion Waiters write up makes no sense as it says he would be a good player off the bench for the Twolves and you have him going to the Suns.
Yeah some of the descriptions
Yeah some of the descriptions didn’t change, like talking about Fab Melo with the Pacers but has him going to the Heat
@ Vulture711
Umm…maybe because these comparisons are being made to previous players from when they entered the NBA Draft. For example, you say Moultrie and Hill are a bad comparison. However, while Moultrie averaged 16 and 10 this season (his junior year), Hill averaged 18 and 13 his junior year at Arizona before entering the league. They compare them to previous players based on how they were performing before entering, and Hill and Moultrie also have similar playing styles (grind to the basket, occasional jumpers, fight for the rebounds).
Also, "the guy he is compared to" isn’t getting enough respect. While Hill’s averages this season were 4.7 ppg, 4.4 rpg, and 0.9 bpg in 11.7 mpg, his per 36 averages were 14.5 ppg, 13.6 rpg, and 2.6 bpg. While per 36’s aren’t always accurate, it goes to show you how much of a game changer Hill (or Moultrie) could be, if given starter’s minutes.
I would easily put Hill on my team because he’s such a hard worker, and he’s still got great untapped potential that’s wasting away while teams have him ride the bench.
Bah
Hill is no better than a 10th man. I would hope at 15 you could get a potential future starter or valuable bench player. If all Moultrie lines up to be is Jordan Hill, I’d look elsewhere. I might rather Marqus Teague and move Holiday to the 2
Wow, no TWJr in the projected
Wow, no TWJr in the projected 1st round? smdh
TWJr will be one of the best players come Vegas summer League- if he gets drafted by a team with a summer league entry.
comparisons
If they are making comparisons based off what guys have done in college then you cannot compare Harison barnes to glen rice.
Harison Barnes averaged 17 ppg shot 44 percent from the floor and 35.8 percent from 3
Glen Rice averaged 26 ppg shot 57 percent from the floor and 52 percent from 3. He also averaged over 30 a game in the ncaa tourney and lead them to the title
@ Vulture711…agan
If Jordan Hill is no better than a 10th man on any team in the league, why was he the 8th overall pick by the New York Knicks in 2009? You keep putting Hill down, but clearly he was worth the pick at the time. Moultrie can be absolutely great at the next level, but it all depends on which team drafts him and actually gives him a chance to shine. If Philly does draft him, he’ll be stuck on the bench behind Elton Brand and Thaddeus Young so yes, of course he won’t develop into a great player. If he’s picked by a team that actually needs a power forward or a 6th man, sit back and watch him develop.
Likewise, Hill was always buried so low on the depth chart. He had David Lee and Al Harrington ahead of him on the roster; of course he wasn’t going to get much playing time. That’s why he’s never had a chance to show what he can do, and has been treated as trade bait ever since entering the league.
at 15
I would be very disappointed with Moultrie as welll. Just not the prospect I want in this good of a draft.
Rockets’ Picks
Four words: Are. You. F***ing. Nuts. The Rockets will NOT pick Henson, DEFINITELY not with PJ3 still on the board. Henson is way too much of a risk, and the Rockets can’t afford to take that risk. And I definitely think Teague is not a good target. Not with Lowry or Dragic next year at the 1. They already have a scoring force there, so why not Marshall, (whom I happen to like very much as a future All-Star) who could, theoretically, play the point while Dragic plays the 2, and Martin the 3. Perhaps PJ3 could play center, and Scola at PF. Anyway, I just think PJ3 and Marshall are much better picks than Henson and Teague.