Did LeBron James and the champion Miami Heat do enough to repeat? Will the Washington Wizards and Charlotte Bobcats be as woeful as they were a season ago?

Let’s take a look at that and much more as I dive into my offseason grades for the Southeast Division.

May 23, 2012; Philadelphia, PA USA; Philadelphia 76ers point guard Lou Williams (23) reacts after making a shot against the Boston Celtics during the second half of game six of the Eastern Conference semifinals of the 2012 NBA Playoffs at the Wells Fargo Center. The 76ers defeated the Celtics, 82-75. The 76ers tied the series at 3 games each. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-US PRESSWIRE

Atlanta Hawks

Players Added

NBA Draft: G John Jenkins, F Mike Scott
Free Agents: G Lou Williams
Trades: G Devin Harris, F Kyle Korver, G Johan Petro, F Anthony Morrow, F Jordan Williams, F DeShawn Stevenson

Players Lost

Free Agents: C Jason Collins, G Kirk Hinrich, F Vladimir Radmanovic, G Jerry Stackhouse
Trades: F Marvin Williams, G Joe Johnson
Waived: G Jordan Farmar

Is it too early to give Danny Ferry the Executive of the Year Award?

Just two weeks on the job, Ferry found the only general manager in the league willing to give up expiring contracts for the remaining $89 million left on Johnson’s contract, got another expiring contract for Marvin Williams, picked up a free-agent bargain in Lou Williams and suddenly has the team poised to be a serious player in the free-agent market of 2013.

Theoretically, the Hawks could add both Dwight Howard and Chris Paul next year. They’ll have just three players under contract. Even if they can’t persuade either All-Star to come to Atlanta, they’ll still have major room to attract other top-tier free agents.

They may be a little worse this season, but still have the talent to contend for a playoff spot, but this has been a very productive offseason for the Hawks. Grade: A

Charlotte Bobcats

Players Added

NBA Draft: F Michael Kidd-Gilchrist, F Jeff Taylor
Free Agents: G Ramon Sessions, C Brendan Haywood (amnesty awarded)
Trades: G Ben Gordon

Players Lost

Free Agents: G D.J. Augustin
Trades: F Corey Maggette
Waived: F Jamario Moon

The Bobcats had a nice draft adding MKG and Jeff Taylor and upgraded the point guard spot by essentially swapping D.J. Augustin for Ramon Sessions. But while they needed some shooting, taking on the $25.6 million still owed to Ben Gordon. While most rebuilding teams clear cap space, Michael Jordan just continues to add bad salaries. Grade: C+

Miami Heat

Players Added

Feb. 20, 2012; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Washington Wizards guard Rashard Lewis during game against the Phoenix Suns at the US Airways Center. The Suns defeated the Wizards 104-88. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-US PRESSWIRE

NBA Draft: C Justin Hamilton
Free Agents: G Ray Allen, F Rashard Lewis

Players Lost

None

The champs lost no one and added two vets in Allen and Lewis. While they are both past their primes, in this Heat lineup they will be asked to just spot up and shoot 3′s, something both do very well. Grade: A-

Orlando Magic

Players Added

NBA Draft: F Andrew Nicholson, C Kyle O’Quinn
Free Agents: G Jameer Nelson (re-signed)
Trades: F/C Gustavo Ayon

Players Lost

Trades: F Ryan Anderson
Waived: F Von Wafer

The Magic added nothing and lost Ryan Anderson. In addition the Dwight Howard saga is completely out of control. It’s going to be a long way back for the Magic. Grade: F (could change if they get a nice haul for Howard).

Washington Wizards

July 18, 2012; Las Vegas, NV, USA; Washington Wizards guard Bradley Beal (3) during the game against the Milwaukee Bucks at Cox Pavilion. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-US PRESSWIRE

Players Added

NBA Draft: G Bradley Beal, G Tomas Satoransky
Free Agents: F Cartier Martin (re-signed), G A.J. Price
Trades: F Trevor Ariza, C Emeka Okafor

Players Lost

Trades: F Rashard Lewis
Waived: F Andray Blatche (amnesty)

I wasn’t crazy about the deal for Okafor and Ariza. The Wizards sacrificed cap space for the future for two bad contracts. Teams that aren’t ready to win shouldn’t be making win-now type of trades. With that being said, a front-line of Nene-Okafor-Ariza could be pretty good and I love Washington getting Brad Beal in the draft. Washington could be a sleeper playoff team this season. Grade: B

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Here’s a look at how each team graded out after the 2012 NBA Draft

Atlanta Hawks 

John Jenkins at No. 23 is a bit of a stretch although I love his shooting ability. Virginia’s Mike Scott will be a very good bench player for the Hawks.

Overall, the Hawks didn’t make a big splash but they added a couple of possible contributors.

Grade:  C+

Boston Celtics 

Mar 31, 2012; New Orleans, LA, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes forward Jared Sullinger (0) walks back to the locker room after the semifinals of the 2012 NCAA men

Plenty of teams stayed away from Jared Sullinger, but he’s worth the risk at No. 21.

Fab Melo is a project, but he adds much-needed size and Kris Joseph will also provide solid depth for the team. The Celtics got bigger and younger almost overnight though which was a goal, even though Sullinger and Melo are question marks. 

Grade:  B

Brooklyn Nets

Tyshawn Taylor could be a good backup guard on this team and down the road could become a quality defender and underrated scorer.

Tornike Shengelia and Ilkan Karaman don’t do much for them now and may never see the court in the NBA.

The Nets might very well lose both Deron Williams and Gerald Wallace and, since this draft doesn’t look good on paper, they could be heading for a lottery pick next season.   

Grade:  D-

Charlotte Bobcats

The Bobcats needed players to make an impact and Michael Kidd-Gilchrist is going to be a great fit on this team. His leadership abilities and tenacity on the defensive end of the floor should be infectious on this roster.

Jeff Taylor adds another elite athlete who can defend. The Hornets are still far away, but this was a very solid draft from Michael Jordan’s team; they add two players that can not only contribute right away but who are leaders and can help change the losing culture in Charlotte.  

Grade:  B+

Chicago Bulls

Marquis Teague is a nice pick, and he is insurance for Derrick Rose. Teague would have likely been a top-10 pick next year had he stayed in school.

Teague could ultimately be better than his brother, Jeff, but I think the Bulls needed to address the 2-guard spot as adding backcourt scoring was a priority.  But the Bulls got themselves a solid player at No. 29 nonetheless.   

Grade:  B-

Cleveland Cavaliers

June 28, 2012; Newark, NJ, USA; Dion Waiters (Syracuse) puts on a cap as he is introduced as the number four overall pick to the Cleveland Cavaliers during the 2012 NBA Draft at the Prudential Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-US PRESSWIRE

Dion Waiters at No. 4 was a surprise, but I like the pick. He doesn’t fill the need that Harrison Barnes would have, but he’s a scorer and adds toughness and the ability to get to the basket.

A Kyrie Irving-Waiters backcourt will pressure opposing defenses for years.

They gave up a lot to move up and get Tyler Zeller (three picks), but Cleveland needed some size and it was a smart move. The Cavs have a very nice young core in Irving, Waiters, Zeller and Tristan Thompson.

Looking forward, they have a nice young backcourt and some frontcourt depth. While I like the Cavs young core right now, they are still a year or two away from being a playoff team.  

Grade: B

Dallas Mavericks

Dallas added picks and more cap flexibility for the future by trading down.

Jared Cunningham, Bernard James and Jae Crowder will add nice depth, although passing on Perry Jones III and Arnett Moultrie at No. 24 could be a mistake down the road.

However, Cunningham can add scoring, and James and Crowder can add some much-needed, hard-nosed defensive play. If the Mavs sign Deron Williams they look good on paper. If not, they still need to add a couple big pieces to contend.  

Grade:  C

Denver Nuggets

Evan Fournier went too high for my liking, and it will be interesting to see if they want to bring him over this season or wait a couple of years.

Quincy Miller will turn out to be a nice pick if he develops, and Izzet Turkyilmaz could turn into something in the future, if he ever reaches the NBA.

All of these picks are for the future, though, as the Nuggets had no real pressing needs, but keep your eye on Miller as he has the ability to become a star.

Grade:  C+

Detroit Pistons

This grade could be better if Andre Drummond becomes a star, but on paper, a frontcourt that features Drummond and Greg Monroe could be very good for years to come.

I like the Pistons getting Khris Middleton and Kim English, who will add some shooting as well.

All three guys should compete for playing time right away. Add them to Brandon Knight and Monroe, and the Pistons are starting to fill out nicely.

Detroit improved with this draft, and after a strong finish to the 2012 season, the Pistons could be closer to a playoff team than most people would believe.

Grade:  B

Golden State Warriors

June 28, 2012; Newark, NJ, USA; Harrison Barnes (North Carolina), right, is introduced as the number seven overall pick to the Golden State Warriors by NBA commissioner David Stern during the 2012 NBA Draft at the Prudential Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-US PRESSWIRE

The Warriors got a gift when Harrison Barnes fell to them, as they needed production at small forward.

He will turn out to be a steal for the Warriors, and a starting lineup of Stephen Curry, KlayThompson, Barnes, David Lee and Andrew Bogut could be very good.

Festus Ezeli is a big body that I like a lot; he should be a solid backup center for years to come. Draymond Green was a steal in the second round and Ognjen Kuzmic is a player Golden State can stash away for a few years.

This was an outstanding draft by the Warriors who add an impact player and two depth pieces. Mark Jackson’s team is a playoff team on paper.  

Grade:  A-

Houston Rockets

The Rockets added three nice players in Jeremy Lamb, Royce White and Terrence Jones, but they will regret not being able to get Drummond.

It will be interesting to see how many of the three are still with the Rockets when training camp nears, as the Rockets have a huge void in the middle.

Houston grabbed three guys that can contribute and even become starters in the NBA, plus FurkanAldemir is actually a pretty good foreign prospect who could make an impact down the road.

The Rockets are not only set up nicely for the future, but they should be pretty good in 2013 as well. They narrowly missed the playoffs in 2012, but that may not happen again next season.  

Grade:  B+

Indiana Pacers

Miles Plumlee could be decent, but he could also be out of the league quickly. Trading up to take Orlando Johnson in the second round could work out nicely but overall I did not like Indiana’s draft.

I was stumped by both of Indiana’s picks, based on what they have on the roster

The Pacers did very little to improve.

Grade:  D-

Los Angeles Clippers:

The Clippers didn’t pick in this draft.  Grade:  N/A

Los Angeles Lakers

Darius Johnson-Odom should be a good depth piece for a team in need of solid bench players and better athletes.

Robert Sacre is not a bad player to get with the final pick of the draft. Overall the Lakers added some additional size, scoring and athleticism. Not a bad night considering where they were drafting coming in.  

Grade:  C

Memphis Grizzlies

Mar 27, 2012; New York, NY, USA; Washington Huskies guard Tony Wroten (14) drives the lane during the first half half of the semifinal round against the Minnesota Golden Gophers at the NIT held at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Anthony Gruppuso-US PRESSWIRE

I like Tony Wroten for them, but he will need time to develop, and we won’t know how this pick works out for a couple of years.

The Grizzlies needed a backup point guard so Wroten fills a need, but he is a lousy shooter anddoesn’t take care of the ball very well.

This grade could be much higher is Wroten develops the way his raw talent says he should.  

Grade: B-

Miami Heat

The Heat traded down to save cap space but there was some very good talent on the board when they picked. Jordan Hamilton could turn into a rotation guy.

Passing on Moultrie or Jones could turn into a mistake, but the Heat didn’t add or lose anything and they are the champs, so it’s not the end of the world.   

Grade D-

Milwaukee Bucks

I love the John Henson pick. Along with trading for Samuel Dalembert, Milwaukee gets deeper and better up front and should be a team that can protect the rim.

I also like Doron Lamb, who can add be a lethal shooter off the bench.

It’s been a very good couple of days for the Bucks. Milwaukee is adding the parts to possibly crack the playoffs this season.

Grade:  B+

Minnesota Timberwolves

Robbie Hummel can play defense and shoot the ball. He adds some depth for the Wolves and could be a rotation player this season.   

Grade: C

New Orleans Hornets

The Hornets added Anthony Davis with the No. 1 overall pick, which is plenty enough for the high grade. But they also added another quality player in Austin Rivers, which creates a good young combo to watch for years to come.

Darius Miller isn’t talked about as much the day after the draft, but he is a steal in the middle of Round 2. 

New Orleans isn’t a playoff team this season, but they have certainly laid down the groundwork to get there very soon. 

Grade:  A

New York Knicks  

Kostas Papanikolaou could be a star once he makes his way to the NBA.

However, it could take a couple of years, and the Knicks needed to add something in this draft that could have helped them immediately.

Grade:  B-

Oklahoma City Thunder

June 28, 2012; Newark, NJ, USA; Perry Jones III (Baylor), right, is introduced as the number twenty-eight overall pick to the Oklahoma City Thunder by NBA commissioner David Stern during the 2012 NBA Draft at the Prudential Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-US PRESSWIRE

Getting Perry Jones III at the bottom of the first round is a steal. He’s just another young weapon for a team already loaded with them.

If Jones even comes close to living up to his potential, he will be a star.  

Grade:  A

Orlando Magic

I love Andrew Nicholson’s game and think he could be the steal of the draft. He’s a guy who can do it all and will be productive at both ends.

Kyle O’Quinn is also a nice pick and will surprise people with how productive he is.

No matter what they decide to do with Dwight Howard, the Magic have gotten bigger and added a pair of guys who can bang.  

Grade:  B+

Philadelphia 76ers

I love the upside of Maurice “Moe” Harkless, but I don’t know if Philadelphia is the best fit, since they have wing players galore right now.  I also like the upside of Arnett Moultrie, who should be a solid rebounder for the team.

The Sixers need some backcourt players, but in the future Harkless could be a star and Moultrie fills a need.

This could be that the writing is on the wall for Andre Iguodala, though. 

Grade:  C+

Phoenix Suns

This was a need pick for the Suns, but I don’t think Kendall Marshall’s game will translate well to the NBA.

Marshall is an outstanding floor general, but he’s not a great athlete and will struggle scoring and defending. Sometimes great college point guards don’t make great NBA point guards.

He will have big shoes to fill if Steve Nash leaves as a free agent; his addition alone won’t make the Suns a playoff team.  

Grade:  B-

Portland Trail Blazers

June 28, 2012; Newark, NJ, USA; Damian Lillard (Weber State), right, is introduced as the number six overall pick to the Portland Trail Blazers by NBA commissioner David Stern during the 2012 NBA Draft at the Prudential Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-US PRESSWIRE

The Blazers had some needs and filled them.

Damian Lillard has the chance to be outstanding. Meyers Leonard has potential and a huge upside, and while it will take him some time for him to develop, Leonard has the chance to be very good.

To get a first-round talent like Will Barton in the second round is a steal. The Blazers have the pieces set in place for the future.

Leonard won’t be a difference-maker right away, and the Blazers will be too young to make a run at the playoffs, but I still love their draft.  

Grade:  A-

Sacramento Kings

Robinson fell into their lap and will be a great fit on a Kings team that has some good young talent. He is explosive and will be a tenacious rebounder.

Paired with DeMarcus Cousins, the Kings filled a huge need in the draft and could have a dominant frontcourt for years to come.

Sacramento will eventually get there, but this team is very young and must learn how to win.

To do that, the Kings must get better defensively; a season ago they allowed an NBA-worst 104.4 points per game.

That is something that doesn’t get fixed overnight. 

Grade:  A-

San Antonio Spurs

The Spurs always find players late in the draft, and Marcus Denmon could be a solid backup point guard.

He’s undersized but can shoot the ball.  

Grade:  C+

Toronto Raptors

June 28, 2012; Newark, NJ, USA; Terrence Ross (Washington) heads to the stage after being introduced as the number eight overall pick to the Toronto Raptors during the 2012 NBA Draft at the Prudential Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-US PRESSWIRE

I like Terrence Ross a lot but the Raptors could have probably traded down and still got him. Still, he’s a player that can do it all and helps the Raptors add some toughness in the backcourt.

Second round pick, Quincy Acy adds some size and length and has the chance to be a surprise.

Tomislav Zubcic is another player to stash away who may never see the NBA. 

Grade:  C

Utah Jazz

Kevin Murphy has the chance to be a surprise. He can score the ball and at 6’6” has good size for a 2-guard.

He was worth rolling the dice on in the second round.   

Grade:  C

Washington Wizards

Bradley Beal certainly fills the hole at shooting guard, and Tomas Satoransky should provide good depth in the future.

The Wizards now have one of the most athletic backcourts in the NBA and improved both before and during the draft.

Washington will be much improved but still has a little ways to go before contending in the Eastern Conference.  

Grade:  A-

After Anthony Davis goes to New Orleans with the No. 1 pick, almost anything can happen as there are anywhere between six and 10 teams talking trade right now. If any deals go down in the early hours on Thursday, I will continue to update how it effects each and every team in the first round.

With that being said, let’s dive right into it as the New Orleans Hornets are now on the clock.

Apr 2, 2012; New Orleans, LA, USA; Kentucky Wildcats forward Anthony Davis waves to the crowd after cutting down a piece of the net after the finals of the 2012 NCAA men

1. New Orleans Hornets: Anthony Davis, Kentucky

New Orleans lands the player who can make the biggest immediate impact in Davis. With his defensive ability, Davis is projected as a future All-Star and Defensive Player of the Year.

He’s a guard in a 6’11″ power forward’s body, and while he needs to add muscle, Davis will be very good at both ends of the floor.

2. Charlotte Bobcats: Thomas Robinson, Kansas 

Robinson is NBA-ready after a season in which he averaged 17.7 points per game and was second in the nation with 463 rebounds (11.9 per game).

Charlotte could trade this pick, but if they stay here, the Bobcats need to go with the guy who can help on the glass as well as score.

3. Washington Wizards: Bradley Beal, Florida            

With the trade that brought them Trevor Ariza and Emeka Okafor, the Wizards likely don’t need to draft Michael Kidd-Gilchrist, as they just added a pair of solid defensive players.

They now have a hole at the 2 and are in need of a lights-out shooter. Beal fits that bill, and a John Wall-Beal backcourt looks nice for the future.

Don’t be surprised if someone moves up to No. 2, though, to take Beal away from Washington, which could in turn cause them to field offers for this pick.

4. Cleveland Cavaliers: Harrison Barnes, North Carolina

Ideally, the Cavs would probably like to move up to No. 2 to select Beal, but if they don’t, then the choice is between Barnes and Kentucky’s Michael Kidd-Gilchrist.

Both would be a great fit, but the Cavs need a go-to scorer to pair with Rookie of the Year Kyrie Irving, and Barnes could one day be a 20-point-per-game scorer in the NBA.

5. Sacramento Kings: Michael Kidd-Gilchrist, Kentucky

MKG is a gift here for the Kings should they keep the pick.

Sacramento has a ton of guys who like to shoot the ball, but Kidd-Gilchrist can impact the game without ever needing to touch it. His tenacity on defense will earn him immediate minutes and help fix a Kings defense that allowed an NBA-worst 104.4 points per game.

He’s also a high-character player who will add toughness and a winning attitude to the locker room, something else Sacramento needs badly.

6. Portland Trail Blazers (via New Jersey Nets): Damian Lillard, Weber State

Mar 7, 2012; Missoula, MT, USA; Weber State Wildcats guard Damian Lillard (1) attempts a free throw against the Montana Grizzlies during the first half of the finals of the 2012 Big Sky Tournament at Adams Center. Mandatory Credit: James Snook-US PRESSWIRE

The Blazers need a point guard and a big man, and while Andre Drummond is an option, I love Lillard here for them.

He adds the dynamic backcourt scorer (24.5 PPG) that the Blazers need and brings a sense of toughness to the team. Lillard is a steady, athletic guard who can shoot the lights out and get to the rim.

Portland can take its chances on landing a big man later on.

7. Golden State Warriors: Andre Drummond, Connecticut

The Warriors could attempt to deal this pick for an established small forward, but if they don’t, it will be hard to pass on Drummond here.

They need a productive small forward, but with the top ones off the board, Drummond could be the young, productive big man they have needed for years.

It’s a roll of the dice, but it’s difficult to pass on someone with Drummond’s physical package and enormous upside.

8. Toronto Raptors: Dion Waiters, Syracuse

Toronto is another team that could trade out of this spot, but with Waiters’ stock rising in the fashion that it is, it’s hard to see him sliding past this spot.

He adds the ability to get to the rim from the guard position, which is something the Raptors need badly, as there is nothing but jump shooters on their roster right now.

Waiters is tough and adds scoring and projects to be a very good NBA combo guard.

9. Detroit Pistons: John Henson, North Carolina

The ACC Defensive Player of the Year is a good fit for a team looking for frontcourt help.

Henson can rebound (10.1 RPG) and block shots (2.9 BPG), which are qualities the Pistons need in a frontcourt guy to pair with Greg Monroe.

He also will make Detroit much more athletic, which is a must with this pick.

10. New Orleans Hornets (via Minnesota Timberwolves): Austin Rivers, Duke

The Hornets can go multiple ways with this pick. They need help at the point, the wing and in the middle, and while Rivers solves none of those problems, he provides them with insurance in case restricted free agent Eric Gordon leaves.

Rivers is an intriguing prospect who many teams like and can add another scorer, long-range shooting and potential star power, all things the Hornets need badly.

Adding Davis and Rivers will make this a very good draft for New Orleans.

11. Portland Trail Blazers: Meyers Leonard, Illinois

Mar 8, 2012; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Illinois Fighting Illini center Meyers Leonard (12) dunks against the Iowa Hawkeyes during the first half of the first round of 2012 Big Ten Tournament at Bankers Life Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-US PRESSWIRE

Portland lucks out and gets not only the point guard it needs, but a future big man as well.

Leonard led the Big Ten in blocked shots (1.9), and even though he is a raw talent, the NBA is always enamored with size. He had an outstanding combine, and his stock is way up. He could fill the need in the middle for the Blazers.

Leonard won’t be a star right away, but he has a ton of overall talent. With Leonard, Portland gets size, athletic ability and a ton of upside.

12. Houston Rockets (via Milwaukee Bucks): Tyler Zeller, North Carolina    

I highly doubt this is Houston’s pick come draft day, but for now, the ACC Player of the Year can add the size and athleticism in the middle that the Rockets need. Zeller averaged 16.3 points per game and 9.6 rebounds per game for North Carolina during his senior season and while he won’t likely approach those numbers, he can be productive in the NBA.

He isn’t flashy and won’t be an All-Star, but Zeller is good fundamentally and could be a solid NBA player for a decade or more.

Houston needs a center, and Zeller could become a pretty good one.

13. Phoenix Suns: Terrence Ross, Washington

Ross can score from the inside or outside, averaging 16.4 points while shooting 37 percent from behind the arc. In addition, he can defend, handles the ball well and is one of the best rebounding guards in the draft, pulling down 6.4 boards per night.

He has great size for a 2-guard at 6’6” and can do anything on the floor very well. The Suns need backcourt depth, and they get a real good player here.

The Suns need backcourt production, especially if Steve Nash leaves, and the long-range shooting ability of Ross combined with his elite athleticism will be a nice fit in the Phoenix backcourt for a long time.

14. Milwaukee Bucks (via Houston Rockets): Perry Jones III, Baylor

The Bucks moved down two spots and added Samuel Dalembert in the process so I expect them to add some production from the wing with this pick.

I love taking a chance on the potential of Jones this late. He has simply too much raw talent to slide any further. He runs like a deer and can jump through the gym, but the dominant production hasn’t come out consistently like his skill set would suggest it should.

On talent alone Jones is a top three pick.  If he ever lives up to that talent, he will be an NBA star.

He’s super athletic, but there are questions about his motor. Eventually, the rewards will outweigh the risks, and Jones has too much talent to not roll the dice on this late.

15. Philadelphia 76ers: Jeremy Lamb, Connecticut

Lamb is young but has a ton of upside and could be a steal at No. 15 for the Sixers.

They need a go-to guy, and Lamb could be exactly that, as he averaged 17.7 points per game while at UConn. If the Sixers trade Andre Iguodala and move Evan Turner to the 3, then Lamb becomes an even better fit.

He can extend his game beyond the arc—shooting 33.6 percent from three-point range—but has a devastating mid-range game. In addition, his 7’0″ wingspan should make him tough defensively, which Doug Collins will like.

16. Houston Rockets (via New York Knicks): Arnett Moultrie, Mississippi State

Moultrie has a high motor, and he produces (16.4 PPG, 10.5 RPG).

He’s big and strong enough to play either the 4 or the 5, but he has the athleticism of a guard. He’s a tenacious rebounder but can also stretch the defense, as he can score effectively inside or outside, shooting 55 percent from the floor and 44 percent from behind the arc on the season.

If Houston keeps these picks somehow, they stand to get much more athletic almost overnight.

17. Dallas Mavericks: Kendall Marshall, North Carolina   

Mar 18, 2012; Greensboro, NC, USA; North Carolina Tar Heels guard Kendall Marshall (5) reacts during the first half in the third round of the 2012 NCAA men

Marshall is the best pure floor general in the draft and makes passing the rock look much easier than it really is, setting the ACC single-season assist mark (351).

He’s an outstanding decision-maker, averaging 9.8 assists per game and posting a 3.48 assist-to-turnover ratio.

Down the road, he could bring some of the things to the Mavericks that Jason Kidd did. He makes everyone around him better and not a lot of players can say that. Even if Dallas feels they can sign Deron Williams, I still find it very hard for them to pass on a pure floor general such as Marshall.

18. Houston Rockets (via Utah Jazz through Minnesota Timberwolves): Moe Harkless, St. John’s

Houston just acquired this pick from Minnesota, and while I highly doubt it will be drafting here by draft night, if it does, then it can’t hurt to take the best available player.

The Rockets get frontcourt help with Jones and Moultrie and can continue to get more athletic with Harkless.

Even though they need backcourt depth, Harkless has the potential and upside to be a star. I love any team getting him this late.

19. Orlando Magic: Jared Sullinger, Ohio State

The Magic, depending on what happens with Dwight Howard in the next couple of days, could use a real low-post scorer. Sullinger is the top talent left on the board and a player who could come in and contribute immediately, despite the medical red flags.

His lack of athleticism is a concern, but here’s another case where the rewards could outweigh the risks. I like his post game, and he could be a decent NBA power forward.

20. Denver Nuggets: Terrence Jones, Kentucky

Jones is a guy that can add depth to the already deep Nuggets.

He can play either forward spot and can score at all three levels, shooting 50 percent from the floor and 33 percent from behind the arc.

In addition, Jones is a great athlete, so George Karl’s up-tempo attack won’t be a problem. He also averaged 1.8 blocked shots and 1.3 steals for Kentucky, so his defensive ability could earn him immediate playing time.

21. Boston Celtics: Andrew Nicholson, St. Bonaventure

I still love Nicholson here for the Celtics, but he’s also a guy that I can see rising up the board before draft day. Nicholson has the ability to stretch the floor, averaging 18.5 points per game, shooting 57 percent from the floor and 43 percent from behind the arc. 

There’s not much on the floor that he doesn’t do well and could contribute immediately for Boston, who needs some size badly, especially if Kevin Garnett doesn’t return.

22. Boston Celtics (via Los Angeles Clippers): Royce White, Iowa State    

Mar 8, 2012; Kansas City, MO, USA; Iowa State Cyclones forward Royce White (30) looks down court against Texas Longhorns during the second half of the quarterfinal round of the Big 12 Tournament at the Sprint Center. Texas defeated Iowa State 71-65. Mandatory Credit: Peter G. Aiken-US PRESSWIRE

White is another guy that I think can come in and be a surprise from day one. He has lottery talent, but his anxiety disorder and a fear of flying could make him drop.

He can score (13.4 PPG) and rebound (9.3 RPG), but while he stands 6’9”, White sees the floor like a guard. His 5.0 assists per game led the Iowa State team and actually ranked him fifth in the Big 12 Conference.

Down the road, White could be the eventual replacement for Paul Pierce. With Nicholson and White, the Celtics get younger and more talented almost overnight.

23. Atlanta Hawks: Quincy Miller, Baylor  

Atlanta will have to be patient with Miller, as he’s not NBA-ready right now.

But there’s no debating that his raw ability and huge upside are worth the risk this late. Down the road, Miller could have the ability to be a top scoring option for the Hawks.

A couple years from now he could look like a steal at No. 23.

24. Cleveland Cavaliers (via Los Angeles Lakers): Fab Melo, Syracuse

Melo measured 7’0”, and while he’s raw offensively, he can contribute immediately as a shot-blocker (2.9 BPG) and has the size to be a good rebounder.

But he has nothing that resembles a post game and has a very low basketball IQ. He won’t score with his back to the basket, instead getting a few dunks and put-backs.

With the Cavs in need of size, he’s worth a roll of the dice this late.

Melo has potential, but he has a long way to go before he makes himself a quality NBA big man. But NBA general managers love size, and Melo has that.

25. Memphis Grizzlies: Tony Wroten, Washington

Memphis will have to take its time with Wroten, as he’s another guy who isn’t NBA-ready but has a ton of raw talent.

The Grizzlies can afford to watch him develop, and down the road, he can become one of the better guards in this draft class. First, though, he must find a jumper and learn to value the basketball.

It doesn’t help that he developed a reputation for being a bad teammate, which is something else he must shake.

26. Indiana Pacers: Marquis Teague, Kentucky

Had he stayed in school, Teague would likely be a top-10 pick next season, so the talent is there. But while he has a high basketball IQ, his offensive game needs to be refined.

Teague will need time to develop, but he was impressive in March, as he really came on strong in helping lead Kentucky to the national championship. 

The Pacers could look at Teague as their point guard of the future here, and that ultimately could lead to them shopping Darren Collison.

27. Miami Heat: Jeff Taylor, Vanderbilt

Dec 29, 2011; Milwaukee, WI, USA; Vanderbilt Commodores forward Jeffery Taylor (44) during the game against the Marquette Golden Eagles at the Bradley Center. Vanderbilt defeated Marquette 74-57. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-US PRESSWIRE

Taylor is an outstanding perimeter defender and has range on his jumper, knocking down 42 percent of his attempts from behind the arc.

In addition to being one of the better defenders in the draft, Taylor gives the NBA champs another elite athlete.

There could be minutes available as a rookie, depending on what happens with Mike Miller and his bad back.

28. Oklahoma City Thunder: Draymond Green, Michigan State   

Green does a little bit of everything and does it all very well. He makes his teammates better and will be a good asset coming off the bench in Oklahoma City, who is just really drafting for depth here.

He’s a smart and tough player who can come in and fill a need immediately for the Thunder and can be productive off the OKC bench. My only question is, who will Green guard in the NBA?

He’s way too small to guard the 4 and not quick enough to guard most NBA 3′s. But he is a guy who knows how to play the game and finds a way to produce. I would expect nothing less of him in the NBA.

29. Chicago Bulls: Will Barton, Memphis

The Conference USA Player of the Year  is rising up draft boards and can be the 2-guard the Bulls are looking for.

He averaged 18.0 points and 8.0 rebounds while shooting 50.9 percent from the floor. He has the ability to produce and could become the replacement for Richard Hamilton down the road.

In addition, he gives the Bulls another scoring option next to Derrick Rose, which they badly need.

30. Golden State Warriors (via San Antonio Spurs): John Jenkins, Vanderbilt    

Jenkins has unlimited range, a lightning-quick release and could provide some secondary scoring in Golden State.

You can never have too much shooting. Jenkins could be the best pure shooter in the draft, knocking down 44 percent of his long-range attempts on the season.

He could add some valuable bench scoring for the Warriors and could possibly crack the starting lineup, moving Klay Thompson to the 3.

Second Round Projections

31. Charlotte Bobcats: Kim English, Missouri

32. Washington Wizards: Festus Ezeli, Vanderbilt

33. Cleveland Cavaliers: Evan Fournier, France

34. Cleveland Cavaliers: Doron Lamb, Kentucky

35. Golden State Warriors: Scott Machado, Iona

36. Sacramento Kings: Kyle O’Quinn, Norfolk State

37. Toronto Raptors: Kostas Papanikolaou, Greece

38. Denver Nuggets: Miles Plumlee, Duke

39. Detroit Pistons: Jared Cunningham, Oregon State

40. Portland Trail Blazers: Orlando Johnson, UC-Santa Barbara

41. Portland Trail Blazers: Mike Scott, Virginia

42. Milwaukee Bucks: Tomas Satoransky, Czech Republic

43. Atlanta Hawks: Furkan Aldemir, Turkey

44. Detroit Pistons: Darius Miller, Kentucky

45. Philadelphia 76ers: Kevin Murphy, Tennessee Tech

46. New Orleans Hornets: Tyshawn Taylor, Kansas

47. Utah Jazz: Robbie Hummel, Purdue

48. New York Knicks: Jae Crowder, Marquette

49. Orlando Magic: Chris Johnson, Dayton

50. Denver Nuggets: Benard James, Florida State

51. Boston Celtics: Justin Hamilton, LSU

52. Golden State Warriors: Darius Johnson-Odom, Marquette

53. Los Angeles Clippers: Quincy Acy, Baylor

54. Philadelphia 76ers: Kevin Jones, West Virginia

55. Dallas Mavericks: Hollis Thompson, Georgetown

56. Toronto Raptors: Kris Middleton, Texas A&M

57. Brooklyn Nets: Drew Gordon, New Mexico

58. Minnesota Timberwolves: Alex Young, IUPUI

59. San Antonio Spurs: William Buford, Ohio State

60. Los Angles Lakers: Kris Joseph, Syracuse

Follow Matt Shetler on Twitter for news, reaction and analysis from around the NBA.

In my latest mock draft, I take a look at exactly where the top prospects in the game will land. Check back on Thursday morning as I will release my final mock draft the morning of the draft.

With that being said, let’s jump right into it.

1. New Orleans Hornets: Anthony Davis, Kentucky

The Hornets won the lottery and will strike gold with Davis. He’s a shot-blocking machine and also skilled offensively. He’s a franchise changer for the Hornets.

2. Charlotte Bobcats: Thomas Robinson, Kansas 

Charlotte could trade the pick or go with Bradley Beal or Harrison Barnes here, but taking the athletic and relentless power forward who posted 27 double-doubles on the year at Kansas seems like a pretty safe pick.

March 24, 2012; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Florida Gators guard Bradley Beal (23) shoots over Louisville Cardinals guard/forward Kyle Kuric (14) during the second half in the finals of the west region of the 2012 NCAA men

3. Washington Wizards: Bradley Beal, Florida            

Ernie Grunfeld’s trade to acquire Trevor Ariza and Emeka Okafor cleared the way for taking Beal with this pick. He’ll be the ideal complement to John Wall in the backcourt, and while the trade accomplished little for the Wizards’ future, Beal has the chance to be outstanding.

4. Cleveland Cavaliers: Harrison Barnes, North Carolina

The Cavs have loved Barnes for over a year now, and they have enough energy guys already, which should be the deciding factor between Barnes and Michael Kidd-Gilchrist.

What the Cavs need is a guy who can fill it up, and Barnes is that, as the 17.1 points per game he averaged on the season should translate nicely to the NBA.

5. Sacramento Kings: Michael-Kidd Gilchrist, Kentucky

The Kings need a big guy badly, but MKG is the perfect player for Kings coach Keith Smart.

They have enough scoring. MKG is a hard-playing, athletic, physical small forward who doesn’t have to score to make an impact. The Kings had the worst defense in the NBA a season ago, allowing an average of 104.4 points per game, and MKG should help improve that.

6. Portland Trail Blazers (via New Jersey Nets): Damian Lillard, Weber State

He adds the dynamic backcourt scorer (24.5 PPG) that the Blazers need and brings a sense of toughness to the team. He’s an outstanding shooter and has the ability to run an NBA offense.

The Blazers need a point guard, and I love Lillard here for them.

7. Golden State Warriors: Andre Drummond, Connecticut

The Warriors are in need of a small forward, but with the top ones not on the board any longer, they can add the big man they’ve been in search of for a long time.

Even though they acquired Andrew Bogut, Drummond has as much upside as anyone in the draft. It’s a roll of the dice, but it’s difficult to pass on someone with the physical package of Drummond.

8. Toronto Raptors: Dion Waiters, Syracuse

Waiters adds the ability to get to the rim from the guard position, which is something the Raptors need badly as right now there is nothing but jump shooters on their roster.

Toronto is a team that could trade out of this spot, but with Waiters’ stock rising in the fashion that it is, it’s hard to see him sliding past this spot. He’s tough and adds scoring.

9. Detroit Pistons: John Henson, North Carolina

Mar 23, 2012; St. Louis, MO, USA; North Carolina Tar Heels forward John Henson (31) shoots as Ohio Bobcats forward Ivo Baltic (23) defends during the first half of the semifinals in the midwest region of the 2012 NCAA men

Henson can rebound (10.1 RPG) and block shots (2.9 BPG), which are qualities the Pistons need in a frontcourt guy to pair with Greg Monroe.

He also will make Detroit much more athletic, which is a must with this pick. They can build around a Monroe-Henson frontcourt in the future, which will be nice building blocks.

10. New Orleans Hornets (via Minnesota Timberwolves): Austin Rivers, Duke

The Hornets can go multiple ways with this pick, but Rivers also provides them with insurance in case restricted free agent Eric Gordon leaves.

In addition, Rivers provides the Hornets with perimeter scoring, long-range shooting and potential star power, all things the Hornets need badly. Adding Davis and Rivers will make this a very good draft for New Orleans.

The future looks bright in New Orleans

11. Portland Trail Blazers: Meyers Leonard, Illinois

He won’t be a star right away, but has a ton of overall talent. With Leonard, Portland gets size, athletic ability and a ton of upside.

Leonard had an outstanding combine, and his stock is way up and could fill the need in the middle for the Blazers. He’s a legitimate seven-footer who is a freak athlete and can be a true center in the league.

12. Milwaukee Bucks: Arnett Moultrie, Mississippi State   

He’s a guy that averaged 16.4 points and 10.5 rebounds on the season and is a big that can stretch the floor. He not only shot 54.9 percent from the floor on the season, but also 44.4 percent from behind the arc.

He’s big and strong enough to play the 4 or the 5, but athletic enough to run the floor like a guard.

Moultrie gives the Bucks the interior presence that they need badly.

13. Phoenix Suns: Perry Jones III, Baylor

Mar 25, 2012; Atlanta, GA, USA; Baylor Bears forward Perry Jones III (1) dunks against the Kentucky Wildcats during the second half in the finals of the south region of the 2012 NCAA men

Jones was a 4 in college but is likely a 3 in the NBA, and while he wowed scouts at the combine, he hasn’t been able to put together consistent individual workouts since.

He has all the tools in the world, but only averaged 13.5 points and 7.6 rebounds on the season, which is way below what his skill set would suggest.

He’s just too skilled to fall any further.

14. Houston Rockets: Terrence Ross, Washington

Ross can score from the inside or outside, averaging 16.4 points while shooting 37 percent from behind the arc. In addition, he can defend, handles the ball well and is one of the best rebounding guards in the draft, pulling down 6.4 boards per night.

Ross has great size for a 2-guard at 6’6” and can do anything on the floor very well. The Rockets need backcourt depth, and they get a real good player here. I wouldn’t be surprised, though, if Ross finds a way to sneak into the top 10.

15. Philadelphia 76ers: Jeremy Lamb, Connecticut

They need a go-to-guy, and Lamb could be exactly that, as he averaged 17.7 points per game while at UConn. The Sixers desperately need someone that can fill it up from the perimeter, and Lamb could give Doug Collins a much-needed sniper.

Lamb is young, but has a ton of upside and could be a steal at No. 15 for the Sixers. He not only can extend his game beyond the arc—shooting 33.6 percent from three-point range—but has a devastating mid-range game.

16. Houston Rockets (via New York Knicks): Tyler Zeller, North Carolina

Zeller is athletic, can run the floor well and has very good leaping skills.

He’s also very good fundamentally and has a soft touch around the rim, shooting 55 percent from the floor during his senior season at North Carolina. Houston also needs a productive big man, and while he won’t become an All-Star, I do see Zeller being a productive NBA big.

17. Dallas Mavericks: Kendall Marshall, North Carolina   

He’s outstanding decision-maker, averaging 9.8 assists per game and posting a 3.48 assist-to-turnover ratio, and down the road could bring some of the things to the Mavericks that Jason Kidd did.

Marshall is the best pure floor general in the draft and makes passing the rock look much easier than it really is. He also has the rare ability to make everyone around him better.

18. Minnesota Timberwolves (via Utah Jazz): Moe Harkless, St. John’s

Minnesota might not get a shooter here, so taking the best available player isn’t the worst strategy.

Harkless impressed at the combine with his shooting and athleticism and has a very bright future ahead of him. His perimeter shooting will improve, but adding a high-character kid who can score and rebound isn’t the worst move here.

19. Orlando Magic: Terrence Jones, Kentucky

Jones is very athletic, strong and is a good finisher and rebounder in traffic. He’s also a guy that can score at all three levels, shooting 50 percent from the floor and 33 percent from behind the arc.

Orlando won’t get a Dwight Howard replacement (if it moves him) this low, so taking the best available player makes sense.

20. Denver Nuggets: Andrew Nicholson, St. Bonaventure

No one in this draft may be more skilled and versatile on the offensive end than Nicholson. He’s also more athletic than he looks and will fit in nicely in George Karl’s up-tempo offense.

Nicholson has the ability to stretch the floor, averaging 18.5 points per game, shot 57 percent from the floor and 43 percent from behind the arc. 

There’s not much on the floor that he doesn’t do well and could contribute immediately and add depth in Denver.

21. Boston Celtics: Jared Sullinger, Ohio State

Despite averaging 17.5 points and 9.2 rebounds on the season, there were plenty of question marks surrounding Sullinger.

I wasn’t as high on him before the medical red flag, but that should certainly cause him to slide in the draft.

However, the rewards could outweigh the risks this low, and I do love Sullinger’s post-game. Boston could use a banger in the post, and Sullinger can do that.

22. Boston Celtics (via Los Angeles Clippers): Royce White, Iowa State    

White is a player that I think can come in and be a surprise from day one. He can score (13.4 PPG) and rebound (9.3 RPG), but while he stands 6’9”, White sees the floor like a guard. His 5.0 assists per game led Iowa State and actually ranked him fifth in the Big 12 Conference.

Down the road, White could be the eventual replacement for Paul Pierce.

23. Atlanta Hawks: Quincy Miller, Baylor

Miller isn’t close to being NBA-ready, but there’s no doubting his raw talent, and a couple years down the road, he could emerge as the Hawks top scoring option.

24. Cleveland Cavaliers (via Los Angeles Lakers): Fab Melo, Syracuse

Mar 9, 2012; New York, NY, USA; Syracuse Orange center Fab Melo (51) shoots a free throw against the Cincinnati Bearcats during the first half of the semifinals of the Big East Tournament at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Debby Wong-US PRESSWIRE

Melo has nothing that resembles a post-game and has a very low basketball IQ. But he measured 7’0”, and while he’s raw offensively, he can contribute immediately as a shot-blocker (2.9 BPG) and has the size to be a good rebounder.

With the fact that the Cavs are in need of size, he’s worth a roll of the dice this late. Melo has potential, but has a long ways to go before he makes himself a quality NBA big man.

25. Memphis Grizzlies: Tony Wroten, Washington

Wroten has the raw skills to become the best guard in this draft, but first must find something that resembles a jump shot and learn to take care of the basketball.

The Grizzlies have the luxury of allowing him to develop for a while, but he could reward their patience down the road.

26. Indiana Pacers: Marquis Teague, Kentucky

Teague will need time to develop, but he was impressive in March, as he really came on strong in helping lead Kentucky to the national championship. 

The Pacers could look at Teague as their point guard of the future here and ultimately could lead to them shopping Darren Collison.

27. Miami Heat: Jeff Taylor, Vanderbilt

The champs have the opportunity here to add another elite athlete.

Taylor is an outstanding perimeter defender and has range on his jumper, knocking down 42 percent of his attempts from behind the arc.

28. Oklahoma City Thunder: Draymond Green, Michigan State   

Green does a little bit of everything and does it all very well. He makes his teammates better and will be a good asset coming off the bench in Oklahoma City, who are just really drafting for depth here.

29. Chicago Bulls: John Jenkins, Vanderbilt

You can never have too much shooting. Jenkins could be the best pure shooter in the draft, knocking down 44 percent of his long-range attempts on the season. Jenkins has unlimited range, a lightning-quick release and could provide some secondary scoring in Chicago.

He will add some scoring in Chicago and could eventually turn into the replacement for Richard Hamilton.

30. Golden State Warriors (via San Antonio Spurs): Doron Lamb, Kentucky

The Warriors can add some additional shooting here with Lamb, and when he’s going well, he can be lethal, shooting 44 percent from behind the arc for the Wildcats on the season.

First Five Out

Festus Ezeli, Vanderbilt

Evan Fournier, France

Jared Cunningham, Oregon State

Will Barton, Memphis

Drew Gordon, New Mexico

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That leaves only individual workouts for certain prospects to attempt to improve their draft stock. With such a deep draft, several prospects drafted later in the first round will end up outperforming the position they are drafted in.

The Knicks don’t have a first-round pick, but the draft is always fun to try and figure out.

In my latest mock draft, I focus in on these guys who will be a bit of a surprise to the teams that end up drafting them.

1. New Orleans Hornets: Anthony Davis, Kentucky

Apr 2, 2012; New Orleans, LA, USA; Kentucky Wildcats forward Anthony Davis waves to the crowd after cutting down a piece of the net after the finals of the 2012 NCAA men

Davis is a lock to be the No. 1 pick, and while there’s a ton of hype and expectations for him coming in, I think he meets those expectations from day one and makes a pretty significant impact as a rookie.

2. Charlotte Bobcats: Thomas Robinson, Kansas

How the top of the first round plays out all depends what the Bobcats do with this pick. If they end up keeping it, I like Robinson here.

He’s ready to contribute right away, and down the road, could turn himself into a pretty solid double-double machine after recording 27 of them on the season at Kansas.

3. Washington Wizards:  Michael Kidd-Gilchrist, Kentucky               

MKG is a safe pick here for the Wizards.

He brings character and leadership to a team that desperately needs an injection of both. He may not be a top scoring option in the NBA, but his athleticism should make him a pretty productive NBA player.

4. Cleveland Cavaliers:  Bradley Beal, Florida

The Cavs have liked Harrison Barnes for two years now, but with Beal still on the board, it’s difficult to pass on him.

The Florida product averaged 14.8 points per game on the season and could turn into the best pure scorer in the draft. Paired with Kyrie Irving, this Cleveland backcourt could be among the best in the NBA in a couple of years.

5. Sacramento Kings: Andre Drummond, Connecticut

The Kings need a big man to play with DeMarcus Cousins, and at No. 5, they can’t pass on the upside of Drummond.

It may take some time for him to reach his potential, but if he does, Drummond could be the most talented overall player in the draft.

6. Portland Trail Blazers (via New Jersey Nets): Damian Lillard, Weber State

Mar 7, 2012; Missoula, MT, USA; Weber State Wildcats guard Damian Lillard (1) attempts a free throw against the Montana Grizzlies during the first half of the finals of the 2012 Big Sky Tournament at Adams Center. Mandatory Credit: James Snook-US PRESSWIRE

Lillard was the talk of last week’s combine in Chicago and could be a perfect fit for Portland at No. 6.

They need a point guard, and Lillard is the top one on the board. He can shoot the ball, averaging 24.5 points per game while shooting 47 percent from the floor, 41 percent from behind the arc and 89 percent from the charity stripe.

He’s s a guy that I feel can put up No. 1 type pick numbers as a rookie and could be a serious Rookie of the Year candidate based on his scoring ability.

As far as playing the point guard position goes, he can do that as well. He’s was asked to score more at Weber State, but still tallied a 2-to-1 assist-to-turnover ratio.

7. Golden State Warriors: Harrison Barnes, North Carolina

I’ve been up and down on Barnes all season, but he’s a good fit for the Warriors, who need some scoring production from the small forward spot.

That’s something Barnes can definitely provide after averaging 17.1 points per game on the season.

8. Toronto Raptors: Dion Waiters, Syracuse

Toronto general manager Bryan Colangelo said he’s not the one who made Waiters a lottery promise, but not too many other teams make sense enough for Waiters to cancel all his workouts.

Even if the Raptors aren’t the team who gave the Syracuse product a draft promise, there’s no rule against taking him here.

9. Detroit Pistons:  Perry Jones III, Baylor

Jones helps the Pistons get more athletic and is a guy that can play the 3 or the 4, although I see him more as an NBA 3.

Considering the knocks on him and lack of consistent production in college (13.5 PPG, 7.6 RPG), Jones is going to be drafted on his potential.

But he’s a guy that I feel whose game is more suited for the NBA.

The guy runs like a deer and can jump through the gym. He’s also a guy that could be out to prove the doubters wrong, so I foresee a big rookie year for Jones.

10. New Orleans Hornets (via Minnesota Timberwolves): Austin Rivers, Duke

Duke is also a guy who The Sporting News reported may have a lottery promise and could make sense here for New Orleans, depending on what they decide to do with Eric Gordon, who is a restricted free agent.

I don’t think he will explode as a rookie, but Rivers has natural scoring ability (15.5 PPG) and has the potential to become an NBA star.

11. Portland Trail Blazers:  Meyers Leonard, Illinois

Leonard also created a ton of buzz at the combine and has seen his stock shoot way up.

Portend needs a big man for the future, and coming out of this draft with Lillard and Leonard could give the Blazers two building blocks for the future.

12. Milwaukee Bucks: Jared Sullinger, Ohio State   

Mar 31, 2012; New Orleans, LA, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes forward Jared Sullinger (0) reacts following their defeat against the Kansas Jayhawks in the semifinals of the 2012 NCAA men

I think Sullinger can be a decent NBA forward, but I have doubts how good he can be.

He’s not the greatest athlete in the world and could struggle against longer and more athletic defenders. But his post-game looks very good, and given the fact that Milwaukee needs low-post production, he may be worth a roll of the dice.

13. Phoenix Suns: Terrence Ross, Washington

If you’re looking for a guy that can come in and produce right away as a rookie, look no further than Washington’s Ross.

You name it and he does it well.

He’s got good size for a 2-guard at close to 6’7” and can score the ball from both the inside and outside, shooting 46 percent from the floor and 37 percent from behind the arc.

Ross is also one of the best rebounding guards in the draft, averaging 6.4 boards per game.

Some of the other shooting guards such as Rivers, Beal and Jeremy Lamb get all the attention, but Ross is as good, if not better than most of them.

14. Houston Rockets: Jeremy Lamb, Connecticut 

Lamb is a nice fit for the Rockets at No. 14, as Houston needs quality backcourt depth.

Lamb has the ability to become a No. 1 scoring option after averaging 17.7 points per game at UConn. With Kevin Martin’s contract set to expire after the 2013 season, the Rockets could elect to move Martin if Lamb pans out early on.

15. Philadelphia 76ers: John Henson, North Carolina

He’s raw offensively, but he can help a team’s interior defense right away.

Henson is an outstanding athlete who can help the Sixers by rebounding (10.1 RPG) and blocking shots (2.9 BPG).

He’s a great athlete that runs the floor very well, so he will find a way to be productive as his post-game develops.

16. Houston Rockets (via New York Knicks): Tyler Zeller, North Carolina

Mar 25, 2012; St. Louis, MO, USA; North Carolina Tar Heels forward Tyler Zeller (44) shoots against the Kansas Jayhawks during the first half of the finals of the midwest region of the 2012 NCAA men

I don’t think Zeller will be an All-Star, but I think he can be more productive than most people would give him credit for.

He’s athletic and can run the floor well and also has very good leaping skills.

Zeller is very good fundamentally and has a soft touch around the rim, shooting 55 percent from the floor during his senior season.

His numbers improved in each of his four seasons at North Carolina, and while he won’t average the 16.6 points and 9.6 rebounds he did during his senior season, he fills a need in Houston and will be surprisingly productive.

17. Dallas Mavericks: Kendall Marshall, North Carolina   

Should the Mavs select Marshall, they get a point guard similar to the one they had in Jason Kidd, a guy that is an effortless passer and outstanding decision maker (9.8 APG).

He may have to work on some things offensively, but he sees the floor great, and as a facilitator, there’s none better in the draft than Marshall. He takes care of the ball, evident by a 3.48 assist-to-turnover ratio and is the rare type of player that makes everyone on the floor better.

18. Minnesota Timberwolves (via Utah Jazz): Arnett Moultrie, Mississippi State

Moultrie’s decision not to work out during the combine was stunning, but he’s a good fit here for Minnesota.

With the top shooting guards already off the board, instead of reaching for one, adding frontcourt depth here is a plus. While I see him as a 4 in the NBA, Moultrie can play the 4 or the 5.

While he has the strength to play either spot, he has the athleticism of a guard. He’s a guy with a very bright future.

19. Orlando Magic: Moe Harkless, St. Johns

Harkless is another guy who impressed at the combine with his shooting and athleticism.

It’s about time the Magic prepare to start over and adding the high upside of Harkless is a good way to start.

20. Denver Nuggets: Terrence Jones, Kentucky

Jones would be an ideal candidate for a guy to get drafted late and come in and offer production, but while I like him here for Denver, there might not be an opportunity for a ton of minutes right off the bat.

Denver doesn’t have any immediate holes, so they can take the best player on the board. Right now, I have that as Jones.

21. Boston Celtics: Andrew Nicholson, St. Bonaventure

Mar 11, 2012; Atlantic City, NJ, USA; St. Bonaventure Bonnies forward Andrew Nicholson (44) on the foul line Xavier Musketeers during the first half in the finals of the 2012 Atlantic 10 Tournament at Boardwalk Hall. Mandatory Credit: Jim O

Nicholson also was impressive at the combine, and I think he’s a guy that can contribute from the start, especially if the Celtics and Kevin Garnett part ways.

He knows how to play the game and produces across the board, averaging 18.5 points, 8.4 rebounds and 2.0 blocks per game.

In addition, Nicholson shot 57 percent from the floor and 43 percent from behind the arc.

I love him for Boston here and think he can come in and be very productive 

22. Boston Celtics (via Los Angeles Clippers):  Fab Melo, Syracuse    

Boston needs size, and drafting Melo makes sense, as he’s a solid 7’0” and can block shots (2.9 BPG).

He’s raw offensively and may take some time to develop, but the skills are there, as Melo shot 57.6 percent from the floor during his two years at Syracuse.

23. Atlanta Hawks: Royce White, Iowa State 

White is another guy I like to produce as a rookie.

He’s got good size at 6’9”, but shows the ability of a guard.

White averaged 13.4 points and 9.3 rebounds on the year, but also led the Iowa State team and ranked fifth in the Big 12 Conference in assists (5.0 APG).

He had some off-the-court issues in the past, but interviewed great at the combine. He’s a guy that can help the Hawks immediately.

24. Cleveland Cavaliers (via Los Angeles Lakers): Jeff Taylor, Vanderbilt

Cleveland needs to get more athletic, and Taylor is a guy that can do a lot of things. He’s a very good perimeter defender, can get to the rim and finally developed a perimeter shot (42 percent).

25. Memphis Grizzlies: Doron Lamb, Kentucky

Memphis needs someone that can hit the perimeter shot, and Lamb could be a steal here, as he’s a lethal shooter, knocking down 47 percent of his three-point attempts.

26. Indiana Pacers: Marquis Teague, Kentucky

Apr 2, 2012; New Orleans, LA, USA; Kentucky Wildcats guard Marquis Teague (25) lays the ball up against the Kansas Jayhawks during the first half of the finals in the 2012 NCAA men

The Pacers could look at Teague as their point guard of the future here.

He will need time to develop, but was impressive in March, as he really came on strong in helping lead Kentucky to the national championship.
27. Miami Heat: Quincy Miller, Baylor

After disappointing big-time at the combine, Miller may have played his way out of the first round, but makes sense here for Miami.

He’s got a ton of upside, and the Heat can afford to take their time with him.

28. Oklahoma City Thunder: Draymond Green, Michigan State   

Green looked great physically at the combine and may sneak into the first round because of it.

He doesn’t do anything great, but does a lot of things very well. The Thunder just need depth here, and Green is a guy that can come off the bench and produce.

29. Chicago Bulls: John Jenkins, Vanderbilt

Jenkins could be the best shooter in the draft, connecting on 44 percent of his shots from behind the arc. The Bulls need other scoring options, and Jenkins is a guy who, down the road, could turn into a replacement for Richard Hamilton.

30. Golden State Warriors (via San Antonio Spurs): Festus Ezeli, Vanderbilt   

Ezeli is a big body that can help the Warriors rebound (5.9 RPG) the ball and block shots (2.0 BPG).

Adding more size is a plus here for Golden State if they keep the pick, and while Ezeli is raw offensively, he has some talent, averaging 10.0 points per game and shooting 60 percent from the floor.

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