Although March Madness will make or break the NCAA's finest, it's never to early to project where some of the big names of the tournament will be headed June 27, the day of the NBA Draft 2013.
Our predictions:
Charlotte Bobcats - Ben McLemore SG Kansas
Michael Jordan can't be happy to see his team still sitting here, but they could really use a player like McLemore who has tremendous upside.
Orlando Magic - Nerlens Noel C/PF Kentucky
Orlando needs more athleticism in the front court, Noel provides it assuming the Magic are okay with waiting for his rehab.
Washington Wizards - Otto Porter SF Georgetown
He fits athletically and geographically. With the backcourt set in Wall and Beal, Washington can start looking to improving the wing. Cody Zeller might also be a good fit, but wasn't enough to persuade me.
Sacramento Kings - Shabazz Muhammad G/F UCLA
Even though they'll likely move to Seattle, Shabazz is a great piece to start rejuvenate a franchise. He's more of a hustle player than he is polished right now, but I'd put m money on him refining his game.
Cleveland Cavaliers - Anthony Bennet PF UNLV
Watch out for that young team in Cleveland led by PG Irving. Having just take Waiters last year, I'm not comfortable putting Oladipo here so I went with a need and a solid player in Bennet.
New Orleans Hornets - Marcus Smart PG Oklahoma State
The Hornet, or I guess soon to be Pelicans, need some scoring to go along with Anthony Davis.
Phoenix Suns - Victor Oladipo SG Indiana
Perhaps my favorite player in this draft, Oladipo will end up being a steal five years from now. I may not buy into the MJ comparisons as much as others, but the competitor in him makes him all worth it.
Minnesota Timberwolves - Alex Len C Maryland
I'm just as surprised it took this long for the big men to start going, but Minnesota's getting a good one. He's got the size and athleticism you want, and his technique is starting to show.
Detroit Pistons - Gary Harris SG Michigan State
Currently a sleeper that's rising up boards, keep an eye on Harris as it get closer to the draft. Pistons fans will be happy with this one.
Oklahoma City Thunder - Michael Carter-Williams
He Williams going to replace Harden? No. But at 6-5 he's got great vision and a fantastic assist ratio. Needs to improve his jump shot though.
Philadelphia 76ers - Cody Zeller C Indiana
Too many times this season we've seen Zeller get showed up by opponents centers, but his game may be better suited for the NBA with his skills in the post.
Dallas Mavericks - Alex Poythress SF Kentucky
He's a bit of a project, but he's going to test out of the building before the draft. The Mavs could use a player with his skill-set, they just need to be a little patient with him.
Charlotte Bobcats - Mason Plumlee F Duke
The Bobcats get to double down in the lottery and they pick up exactly the type of guy they need. Fundamentally sound, can play the post, and is a willing and able defender.
Phoenix Suns - Kelly Olynk C Gonzaga
Phoenix needs big me and luckily they'll nap one to go along with their SG.