Dion Waiters First Purchase After Being Drafted By Cavs: Range Rover For Mom

Cavaliers Sign First Round Draft Picks Dion Waiters, Tyler Zeller

The Cleveland Cavaliers announced the signing of their two first-round draft picks Dion Waiters and Tyler Zeller on Thursday evening.

The Cleveland Cavaliers have signed 2012 NBA Draft picks, guard Dion Waiters (Syracuse) and forward/center Tyler Zeller (North Carolina), to contracts, Cavaliers General Manager Chris Grant announced today from Cleveland Clinic Courts. Per league and team policy, terms of the contract were not announced.

Waiters, an athletic sixth man for Syracuse whose physical game from the shooting guard position reminds scouts of Dwyan Wade, was the fourth overall pick taken by the Cavs. Rookie salaries are slotted as part of the NBA's new collective bargaining agreement which makes these signings a formality. According to HoopsWorld, Waiters should make around $3.1 million in his first season with increases over the next two years along with qualifying offers for the fourth year. The team has an option to pick up on the player in years three and four.

Zeller was traded to Cleveland after being drafted by Dallas at No. 17 out of North Carolina. Based on the rookie scale, Zeller should make around $1.3 million in his rookie year.

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Cavs Introduce Dion Waiters, Tyler Zeller

NBA Draft 2012: Cleveland Cavaliers Offer Behind The Scenes Look At Draft Selections

On Thursday night, the Cleveland Cavaliers allowed Brian Windhorst of ESPN.com access to the team's war room in anticipation of the 2012 NBA Draft. In his story published on Friday morning, Windhorst details the strategy and thought process behind the team's aggressive decisions, which brought Dion Waiters and Tyler Zeller to Cleveland.

As was well documented days before the draft, Windhorst explained how the Charlotte Bobcats were able to dictate who Cleveland was going to pick. The Cavs were interested in three players; Michael Kidd-Gilchrist, Bradley Beal and Waiters. However, the team was not as interested in Beal as was previously reported and had Kidd-Gilchrist and Waiters rated as the two highest players on their board.

Cleveland believed that if Charlotte held onto the pick they would pick either Kidd-Gilchrist or Kansas forward Thomas Robinson. If the Bobcats wouldn't trade the pick and selected Robinson, the Cavs would have selected Kidd-Gilchrist.

After Charlotte selected the Kentucky forward at No. 2, picking Waiters was a foregone conclusion.

Despite the surprising nature to individuals outside of the Cavaliers organization, the team officials in the room were ecstatic with the pick.

In terms of the Zeller trade, the Cavs were not interested in bringing a bunch of rookies into camp.

Via ESPN:

The Cavs had a handful of players they were looking at in the mid-teens, hoping to use their other three picks to move up. This is again where planning came into play. Before the draft started, they had agreed that moving into the teens was worth their No. 24 pick plus their two high second-round picks, Nos. 33 and 34. Three picks for one seemed like a lot but Grant had decided that he wanted a better player now much more than four rookies

With the Dallas Mavericks looking to clear cap space, the teams came to terms on the deal that sent Zeller to Cleveland.

For the full story, you can read Windhorst's article, here.

For more on the Cavaliers and their 2012 Draft, stay tuned to SB Nation Cleveland'sStoryStream. For all your Cavs news, discussion, and analysis, visit Fear The Sword. And for all your Draft analysis, visit SB Nation's dedicated NBA Draft hub.

NBA Draft 2012: Cavs Not The Team Who Promised Dion Waiters

There was plenty of mystery surrounding Syracuse guard Dion Waiters in the run up to the 2012 NBA Draft. Waiters and his agent shut down all interviews and workout sessions very early in the process, with reports that he had received a "promise" from a team in the lottery. He had almost no access during the scouting process and with the Cavs selecting him No. 4 overall, the inevitable question came up -- were the Cavs the team who offered the promise?

According to Waiters, Cleveland was not the team. Via the AP:

"I didn't even talk to Cleveland," he said. "I didn't even work out for Cleveland."

The pre-draft process is definitely an interesting cat-and-mouse game full of smokescreens and rumored trades. Despite not interviewing or working out Waiters, Grant told the press that they certainly did their due diligence:

Chris Grant says the research they did on Waiters is the most they've ever done on a player.

— Conrad Kaczmarek (@conradkaczmarek) June 29, 2012

And it looks like Grant was just one of many hoping to land Waiters, but the Cavs jumped up and selected the explosive 'Cuse guard.

Several GMs admitted they kept their mouths shut about Dion Waiters before draft, in hopes he'd slide. More tomorrow, I promise.

— Sam Amico (@SamAmicoFSO) June 29, 2012

For more on the Cavaliers and their 2012 Draft, stay tuned to SB Nation Cleveland's StoryStream. For all your Cavs news, discussion, and analysis, visit Fear The Sword. And for all your Draft analysis, visit SB Nation's dedicated NBA Draft hub.

NBA Draft 2012 Reaction: Cavaliers Picked Dion Waiters, Traded For Tyler Zeller -- Unexpected But An Improvement

Nobody was caught more off guard by the moves that the Cleveland Cavaliers made during Thursday's NBA Draft than the fans of the team. After being told that they would be going for Harrison Barnes or Bradley Beal for weeks, they instead went with Dion Waiters out of Syracuse and then shocked the fans again by trading all of their remaining picks for Tyler Zeller at No. 17 overall.

It was a whirlwind of a night, but Cavaliers blog Fear The Sword thinks that despite some of the criticism that the team has endured for their selection choices the team is unquestionably improved:

All in all, it was an exciting night -- not at all like we expected. But when you look at this roster, you simply can't deny the fact that they are improved. They got two very skilled players in Zeller and Waiters who make this a dynamic team with the ability to play various styles of basketball. Perhaps most importantly, they got some athletes and weapons to put next to Kyrie Irving. This is going to be a damn fun basketball team next year.

Of course, right when the Waiters pick was announced they had a slightly different reaction, not that anyone could blame them for being baffled at the time:

Welp.

For more 2012 NBA Draft coverage, stay with this StoryStream. For more on the Cavs, be sure to visit Fear The Sword. And for more NBA news and analysis, check out SB Nation's NBA hub.

NBA Draft Grades: Cavs Marked As 'Loser' After Adding Dion Waiters, Tyler Zeller

NBA Draft 2012 Grades: Cavaliers Earn Mediocre Marks From CBS

Draft grades are usually (read: always) based more on how analysts feel about players and how their mock drafts said the draft was supposed to go more than how talented the players are actually expected to turn out. Most people felt that the Cleveland Cavaliers would be going for Harrison Barnes or Bradley Beal in order to shore up their back court and give Kyrie Irving a partner with the fourth overall pick, and Barnes was there for the taking when the pick came up.

They did indeed do just that, but went a bit off the board by snagging Syracuse's Dion Waiters instead of the expected targets. For that reason, the Cavs were somewhat panned in the world of draft grades, with CBS' Matt Moore giving out a mediocre C+ to Cleveland.

Dion Waiters (4): ... Why? I mean, it's fine, but... why? The Cavaliers are building a very good team behind Kyrie Irving and could have added Thomas Robinson or Harrison Barnes. But instead, they take Waiters, who did not start this season, who did not work out for teams, and who isn't going to bring the polish they need beside Irving.

The grade probably would have been lower had the Cavs not gotten the deal that landed them Tyler Zeller in place. Most of the criticisms of Waiters seem rather pedantic, Syracuse fans have already started saying that the 'never started' argument shouldn't take away how great a player Waiters was for the Orange:

Despite never starting a game for the Orange, Waiters was the best athlete on the floor at any given time and a critical part of a team that went to the Elite Eight and spent a large portion of the season ranked No. 1 in the nation.

Only time will tell if this pick ends up being the key for the Cavs backcourt that they needed. Until then, it's all speculation.

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2012 NBA Draft Results: Ohio State's Jared Sullinger Selected 21st Overall By Boston Celtics

With the 21st overall pick in the 2012 NBA Draft, the Boston Celtics took Ohio State sophomore forward Jared Sullinger.

Picked apart by doctors and panned by scouts leading up to the draft, Sullinger will join a growing list of red-flagged big men who slid on draft night due to size or injury concerns. Despite averaging 17.5 points and 9.2 rebounds per game during his sophomore campaign with the Buckeyes, Sullinger ended up being the 8th big man off the board in 2012 after possibly going No. 1 or No. 2 a year ago.

While his fall from elite prospect to a late 1st rounder/early 2nd rounder will serve as a cautionary tale for one-n-done prospects in the future, Sullinger's determination to succeed will ultimately set the tone for career as a basketball player. While he probably won't be able to compete for a starting role right away in Celtics rotation, Sullinger, who is likely hungrier than ever after this obvious slight, should be an impact scorer from day one with the Celtics.

For more 2012 NBA Draft coverage, stay with this StoryStream. For more on the Cavs, be sure to visit Fear The Sword. And for more NBA news and analysis, check out SB Nation's NBA hub.

2012 NBA Draft Results: Cavs Trade With Mavericks For Tyler Zeller, According To Reports

The Dallas Mavericks selected North Carolina center Tyler Zeller with the No. 17 pick in the NBA draft, but according the ESPN's Chad Ford, the Mavericks made that pick for the Cleveland Cavaliers as part of a trade for the remainder of the Cavaliers' 2012 draft picks.

Mavs select Tyler Zeller for the Cleveland Cavaliers

— Chad Ford (@chadfordinsider) June 29, 2012

Mavs get the 24th, 33rd, and 34th pick from Cavs according to sources

— Chad Ford (@chadfordinsider) June 29, 2012

So the Cavaliers will add a solid big man who is ready to play right away with a guard in Dion Waiters who can play alongside Kyrie Irving in the back court. The Mavericks are obviously looking long-term with the acquisition of more picks as they try to fortify an aging roster.

For more 2012 NBA Draft coverage, stay with this StoryStream. For more on the Cavs, be sure to visit Fear The Sword. And for more NBA news and analysis, check out SB Nation's NBA hub.

2012 NBA Draft Results: Cleveland Cavaliers Select Dion Waiters With 4th Overall Pick

With the fourth overall pick in the 2012 NBA Draft, the Cleveland Cavaliers selected Syracuse guard Dion Waiters, a versatile sophomore scorer who will accompany 2011-12 Rookie of the Year Kyrie Irving in the backcourt for the next half decade.

A 6-foot-4 guard who didn't start a single game last year for Jim Boeheim's Orange, Waiters is a dynamic offensive weapon who can beat opponents in a variety of ways, and projects as an ideal shooting guard in the NBA. He scored 12.6 points per game last year as a sophomore in a sixth man role, and literally soared up draft boards after a series of impressive workouts early on in the process.

Owners of three more selections before the night is out, pick No. 24, No. 33, and No. 34, the Cavs are in a prime position to add a significant amount of bulk to their burgeoning roster heading into next season. As far as the rumored deal earlier in the night where Cleveland would have traded up to the No. 2 slot, Yahoo! Sports' Adrian Wojnarowski reported that nothing was ever close:

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2012 NBA Draft Rumors: Cavaliers Discussing Trade For Charlotte's No. 2 Overall Pick

With the start of the 2012 NBA Draft drawing closer, ESPN.com's Chris Broussard is reporting that the Cleveland Cavaliers could possibly be making a play for Charlotte's No. 2 overall pick:

With the Rockets already showing their willingness to deal in recent days, it's hardly surprising that Houston would be involved in yet another player/pick swap. The Cavaliers, however, sit in an interesting position at the No. 4 slot, mainly because they could end up benefiting from staying put and grabbing the best player available.

For more 2012 NBA Draft coverage, stay right here with this StoryStream. For more on the Cavs, check out Fear The Sword. And for more NBA news and analysis, be sure to visit SB Nation's NBA hub.

NBA Draft Rumors: Anderson Varejao On The Trading Block?

With just a few hours to go before David Stern takes the stage to announce the first pick of the 2012 NBA Draft, the trade rumors are coming fast and furious. The Cavaliers have four picks in the top 35 and the always active Chris Grant is pursuing a number of options. The latest rumors indicate that Anderson Varejao may be on the trading block as the Cavaliers look to acquire an additional pick in the lottery. Via Joe Kotoch of Pro Basketball Draft:

Cavaliers PF/C Anderson Varejao, of the players that could realistically be dealt during the #NBADraft , is the top big man on the trade market. According to a source Cleveland has been talking to teams in the lottery about him.

Varejao has two more years on his contract with a team option for a third. The productive power forward spent the second half of last season on the bench with an injured right wrist and while he's a fan favorite, parting with him as a valuable trade chip could be the way to add younger pieces around Kyrie Irving as Grant builds for the future.

For more news, analysis, and discussion on the Cavaliers Draft, visit Fear The Sword. For more on the 2012 Draft, check out SB Nation's NBA hub.

2012 NBA Draft: SB Nation Mock Has Michael Kidd-Gilchrist To Cleveland

It's never too late to get a mock draft in, with the 2012 NBA Draft just hours away. The Cleveland Cavaliers are a team with a ton of options at No. 4 in the draft - including moving up to No. 2 in a trade with the Charlotte Bobcats. But the trade talks have cooled off of late as many believe that the Cavs are just about equally happy with four players in the draft so will end up wiht someone they like.

But there is word that the Cavaliers want Bradley Beal more than the other three. Will they be able to get him? It doesn't seem likely at this point, with mock drafts around the league reaching something of a consensus on the Washington Wizards taking Beal at No. 3 following their trade with Charlotte.

SB Nation's Tom Ziller took one last crack at an NBA mock draft, where he admittedly isn't sure what's going to happen. Still, he has Michael Kidd-Gilchrist going to Cleveland:

4. CLEVELAND CAVALIERS: MICHAEL KIDD-GILCHRIST

I do believe the Cavaliers' interest in Dion Waiters, mostly because the best reporters are presenting it. However, I think this pick is trade bait. Waiters can be had lower. Teams want to move up. MKG could be the second best player in the draft. ERGO, it makes sense to move down even a little to pick up another asset (even though Cleveland already has three more picks in the top 40).

That's an interesting situation - moving down in the draft. It hasn't been something that has been discussed until recently, and it could be a sign that the Cavaliers are desperate to move in one direction or another. It would make sense for them to move and get the player they want with all the young talent on the roster. But moving backwards does seem like an odd choice for them, as it would likely mean even younger guys making it onto the team.

For more on the Cleveland Cavaliers, go to Fear The Sword. You can also check out professional basketball news from around the league over at SB Nation's NBA page.

NBA Draft 2012: Jared Sullinger Lands In Boston, According To Chad Ford

The Boston Celtics will draft former Ohio State star Jared Sullinger with the No. 22 pick in Thursday's NBA Draft, according to ESPN.com's Chad Ford (Insider).

Concerns over Sullinger's back have caused angst among NBA general managers.

According to Ford:

I'm not sure when the bleeding will end for Sullinger...But since the Celtics have two picks, they can afford to take the risk here. It will be a good one. Sullinger can play and he may be the best low-post scorer in the game.

Sullinger missed two games last season with back problems. He averaged 17.5 points and 9.2 rebounds for Ohio State and helped lead the team to a Final Four appearance.

Both Sullinger's father and agent dismissed concerns over his back.

For more on the Ohio State Buckeyes, check out Land-Grant Holy Land. You can also learn more about college basketball around the nation at SB Nation's College Basketball hub.

NBA Mock Draft 2012: Cleveland To Take Michael Kidd-Gilchrist, According To Chad Ford

The Cleveland Cavaliers will take former Kentucky Wildcat Michael Kidd-Gilchrist with the fourth pick in Thursday's NBA Draft, according to ESPN.com's Chad Ford (Insider).

Kidd-Gilchrist, a 6-foot-8 small forward, averaged 11.9 points and 7.4 rebounds in his one season at Kentucky.

According to Ford,

The Cavs need both a starting 2 and a starting 3. This is a toss-up between Kidd-Gilchrist and Barnes. If they choose MKG they get a hard-working winner who can grow with Kyrie Irving. They were teammates in high school and won a state championship together. While Kidd-Gilchrist still needs a lot of polish on his offensive game, his motor, toughness, defensive pedigree and willingness to work on his game make him a great pick for the Cavs.

Ford goes on to say that the Cavs would like to grab Florida's Bradley Beal at No. 2, but that would likely require the Cavs giving up their No. 24 pick, which might be too steep a price.

For more on the Cleveland Cavaliers, go to Fear The Sword. You can also check out professional basketball news from around the league over at SB Nation's NBA page, or watch SB Nation's YouTube channel:

NBA Draft Rumors: Dion Waiters Moving Up Cavs Board?

The Cleveland Cavaliers are contemplating using their No. 4 pick on Syracuse guard Dion Waiters, according to Yahoo! Sports' Adrian Wojnarowski.

There was this tweet Thursday morning...

Y! Sources: Cleveland's intrigue with selecting Syracuse's Dion Waiters at No. 4 gathering momentum. tinyurl.com/7jbws6n

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@WojYahooNBA) June 28, 2012

...as well as this article, which says:

The Cavaliers haven't been able to get Waiters to visit Cleveland for a workout and meeting with officials, but it hasn't extinguished management's ever-evolving fascination with choosing Waiters at No. 4 - especially if the Cavaliers are unable to secure Florida guard Bradley Beal.

Cleveland has intensified its background checks on Waiters, and sources in direct contact with Cavs officials believe Waiters would be the franchise's choice over Kansas' Thomas Robinson should the Charlotte Bobcats select Michael Kidd-Gilchrist at No. 2, and the Washington Wizards take Beal at No. 3.

In 24.1 minutes per game last season, Waiters, a 6-5 comob guard, averaged 12.6 points, 2.3 rebounds, 2.5 assists and 1.8 steals. He didn't start a single game, but was still a key contributor to the Orange's Elite 8 run. He scored double-figures in seven of Syracuse's final eight games.

DraftExpress.com currently has Waiters going No. 7 to the Golden State Warriors. DraftExpress projects the Cavs to take Kentucky product Michael Kidd-Gilchrist.

For more on the Cleveland Cavaliers, go to Fear The Sword. You can also check out professional basketball news from around the league over at SB Nation's NBA page, or watch SB Nation's YouTube channel:

NBA Draft 2012: Start Time, TV Coverage, Results, Grades And More

On Thursday night, we'll finally find out which impact rookie the Cleveland Cavaliers will put next to Kyrie Irving next season. Cleveland has been linked to shooting guard Bradley Beal, with rumors even suggesting that the Cavs might package their No. 4 and No. 24 picks in exchange for No. 2 and the guaranteed chance to select him.

Recently, though, we've heard less of that. The Cavaliers have been most strongly linked to small forward Michael Kidd-Gilchrist in the days directly leading up to the draft. He famously was high school teammates with Irving.

Small forward Harrison Barnes and power forward Thomas Robinson have also been mentioned as possibilities at the No. 4 spot.

The draft will begin on Thursday, June 28, at 7 p.m. ET and will air on ESPN. Complete draft television coverage will begin at 5:30 p.m. ET on NBA TV.

For more news, analysis, and discussion on the Cavaliers Draft, visit Fear The Sword. For more on the 2012 Draft, check out SB Nation's NBA hub.

NBA Draft Rumors: Cavaliers Reportedly Considering Dion Waiters At No. 4

The Cleveland Cavaliers are reportedly thinking about drafting Syracuse guard Dion Waiters with the No. 4 pick in the 2012 NBA Draft, via ESPN's Andy Katz's Twitter account.

Wait, what?

Syracuse's Dion Waiters could be in play at No. 4 to Cleveland, according to those close to Waiters. That would shake up lottery a bit.

— Andy Katz (@ESPNAndyKatz) June 28, 2012

Well, we haven't heard this one before. Up until late Wednesday night, the Cavaliers were most heavily linked to Kentucky's Michael Kidd-Gilchrist and Florida's Bradley Beal, with Thomas Robinson of Kansas and Harrison Barnes of North Carolina considered outside possibilities.

Katz has not as of yet elaborated on what scenario would have to take place with picks No. 1-to-3 for Cleveland to go with Waiters.

The 2012 NBA Draft is Thursday night. Until then, there will be more rumors.

For more news, analysis, and discussion on the Cavaliers Draft, visit Fear The Sword. For more on the 2012 Draft, check out SB Nation's NBA hub.

NBA Draft Rumors: Potential Cavaliers Deal With Bobcats May Never Materialize

One of the bigger draft rumors in the past week or so surrounding the NBA Draft was the possibility of a big trade between the Charlotte Bobcats and Cleveland Cavaliers that would net the Cavs the second overall pick. With plenty of other trades going down in the past few days, it made sense that the Cats and Cavs would be talking about the swap.

After a couple of days with no activity on that front though, it looks like any potential trades might just not be happening with the draft creeping quickly closer.

#Cavaliers don't feel they have to move up to land a player they want/need. There will be a choice group to pick from if they stay at No. 4

— Tom Withers (@twithersAP) June 27, 2012

Part of the reason why the trade had been rumored in the first place was because the Cavs were said to be coveting Florida's Bradley Beal, who they thought would be gone by their fourth overall pick if they just stood pat. Recently, the narrative has changed and the Cavs' focus seems to have shifted to Michael Kidd-Gilchrist, who is considered a top pick but is generally seen as one of the guys who will fall to the fourth overall pick.

If nothing else, they only have until Thursday to make any potential moves so if something is going to be done, it's going to have to be done quickly. Unfortunately, no movement in several days from either side does not bode well for this particular trade rumor.

For more news, analysis, and discussion on the Cavaliers Draft, visit Fear The Sword. For more on the 2012 Draft, check out SB Nation's NBA hub.

NBA Mock Draft 2012: Cavs Select Michael Kidd-Gilchrist In Latest DraftExpress Projecton

There's just one day until the 2012 NBA Draft and there are plenty of conflicting reports on which way the Cavaliers will go at No. 4. Their approach obviously depends on what happens ahead of them in the top three, but the conventional wisdom, if there is such a thing in a smoke-filled draft week, gives Chris Grant a choice between Michael Kidd-Gilchrist and Harrison Barnes.

The trade rumors with the Bobcats which center on Brad Beal will continue, but they seem to have cooled with a little less than 36 hours before the first name is called. Jonathan Givony of DraftExpress released his latest mock draft over at Yahoo! and he thinks Grant goes with MKG. His sources indicate that Barnes is not a lock for the pick at No. 4. Via Yahoo!:

The Cavs have virtually nothing on the wing going into next season and would be very happy to see Kyrie Irving's former high school teammate available right here. Kidd-Gilchrist could fill an immediate hole, bringing intensity and toughness that will improve Cleveland's shaky perimeter defense. He's one of the most competitive players in this draft.Still very much a work in progress offensively, he would form a formidable transition duo with Irving and hyper-athletic Tristan Thompson.

Some reports indicate that Harrison Barnes could be the pick here, but according to our sources that is not the case.

Kidd-Gilchrist would be an instant impact player, running alongside his former high school teammate Kyrie Irving.

For more news, analysis, and discussion on the Cavaliers Draft, visit Fear The Sword. For more on the 2012 Draft, check out SB Nation's NBA hub.

Cavaliers Will Hold Late Workout For Terrence Ross

Draft night is coming up quickly for the NBA, and the Cleveland Cavaliers have two very defined first round picks. A guy like Terrance Ross from Washington has tended to be mock drafted in between the fourth and 24th overall picks, which is why it was interesting when the Cavs announced that they would be hosting a last-minute workout for him on Wednesday.

Terrence Ross in Cleveland for last minute workout tomorrow. He's not in mix at 4. He's not on board at 24. Interesting. He is a good fit.

— Chad Ford (@chadfordinsider) June 27, 2012

It's only moderately suspicious to have all this evidence laid out, so not all that many people are calling Sherlock Holmes to figure out this mystery. It does beg the question though, what did Ross do right that has suddenly grabbed the Cavs' attention, especially from spots that he won't be grabbed as easily at.

The best explanation just would seem to be that he is some sort of 'what if' back up plan for the Cavs.

For more on the Cleveland Cavaliers, go to Fear The Sword. You can also check out professional basketball news from around the league over at SB Nation's NBA page.

2012 NBA Mock Draft: Cavaliers Trade Up To No. 2, Select Bradley Beal

Rumors have been swirling that the Cleveland Cavaliers and Charlotte Bobcats may swap picks so that the Cavaliers can select Florida shooting guard Bradley Beal. Mock drafts are even accounting for this now, and The Sports Network included the deal in it's latest projections.

The Cavs possess the No. 4 overall pick as well as the 24th and have their eyes on the Florida shooting guard. It's unlikely Beal will last to No. 4, however, because Washington, sitting at No. 3, also covets him. Charlotte, on the other hand, isn't as high on him and needs assets, so trading the two No. 1 picks to move up to the Bobcats' second overall selection looks like the likely scenario. Beal, a smooth shooter who also can get to the rim, looks like a perfect compliment to Irving.

The deal is contingent on the belief that the Washington Wizards would not select Thomas Robinson with the third pick.

For more on the Cleveland Cavaliers, go to Fear The Sword. You can also check out professional basketball news from around the league over at SB Nation's NBA page.

NBA Draft Trade Rumors: Cavaliers, Bobcats Discussing No. 2 Overall Pick

On Tuesday afternoon, a rumor surfaced that the Cleveland Cavaliers and Charlotte Bobcats are engaging in discussions that would send the No. 2 overall selection to the Cavs in exchange for the No. 4, 24 and 34 overall picks in the 2012 NBA Draft on Thursday night. The Bobcats and Cavs have been rumored as potential trade partners almost since the lottery, but with the recent buzz over Brad Beal, it appears the talks are heating up as the Cavs try to leapfrog the Wizards at No. 3.

The Cavaliers are reportedly interested in selecting the Florida two-guard, who many project to be selected by the Washington Wizards at No. 3 overall. By jumping up to the No. 2 slot, the team would be able to ensure the acquisition of Beal.

Via Ken Berger of CBS.com:

The hangup is that Charlotte, not in love with anyone available at No. 2, wants Cleveland's 24th pick. Cleveland also has had conversations with Sacramento (No. 5) and Golden State (No. 7), but the Charlotte deal makes the most sense and sources say there is enough momentum and desire on both sides to get it done. The Bobcats like Robinson and Barnes, and at least one of them will be available at No. 4

For more news, analysis, and discussion on the Cavaliers Draft, visit Fear The Sword. For more on the 2012 Draft, check out SB Nation's NBA hub.

NBA Mock Draft 2012: Cavs Will Have Decision Between Michael Kidd-Gilchrist, Harrison Barnes

The NBA Draft is just two days away, and the smokescreens and trade rumors will come to a close and David Stern will start calling names at the Prudential Center. The Cavaliers continue to be the topic of potential trade rumors that involve Chris Grant moving up two spots in a deal with the Bobcats, where Cleveland would presumably select Bradley Beal with the No. 2 pick.

If they stand pat at No. 4, many suspect they will have a choice between Harrison Barnes and Michael Kidd-Gilchrist. Most mock drafts now have Thomas Robinson going No. 2 to Charlotte and Beal heading to the Wizards at No. 3. That leaves Grant with a tough decision between the two wing players, both with connections to Kyrie Irving. DraftExpress thinks the Cavaliers go with MKG at No. 4.

DraftExpress also tabs a name that has surfaced consistently with the Cavaliers at No. 24 in the first round -- St. Bonaventure's Andrew Nicholson. DX did a statistical study on big men in the 2012 Draft, and Nicholson certainly put in some impressive work in Oleon:

Besides Anthony Davis, Jared Sullinger and Tyler Zeller, the next more impressive big man in this study is likely Andrew Nicholson. Nicholson shouldered a heavy offensive load for St. Bonaventure (3rd highest of the 26 prospects), but still ranks as the 5th most efficient scorer overall. The fact that he was so effective with his back to the basket (5th best post scorer) and facing the basket (#1 in overall jump-shot attempts, 2nd most efficient shooter at 1.096), and with the ball (#3 in total isolation attempts, #3 in efficiency) is impressive. Nicholson is effective in pretty much every area we looked at, highlighting his extremely high skill-level.

For more news, analysis, and discussion on the Cavaliers Draft, visit Fear The Sword. For more on the 2012 Draft, check out SB Nation's NBA hub.

2012 NBA Draft: Jared Sullinger Not Invited To Green Room, According To Report

Early in the mock draft process for the 2012 NBA Draft, Jared Sullinger of the Ohio St. Buckeyes was going pretty highly to teams. A popular pick was the Golden State Warriors at No. 7, but all of that quickly changed on June 18 when there was a report of doctors red flagging Sullinger due to back injury issues. Sullinger has a bulging disc of sorts and it could threaten the longevity of his career or potentially even limit him right out of the gate.

As such, there were some reports that teams weren't even including him on their first round draft boards. There's a perceived free fall right now, with Sullinger previously being thought to have a pretty good shot to be picked in the top 10. Now he could be going anywhere.

Further cementing that sentiment, Chad Ford reported on Twitter, per his colleague Andy Katz, that Sullinger wasn't invited to the NBA Green Room for draft day.

Per @ESPNAndyKatz, Jared Sullinger wasn't invited to the NBA Green Room. NBA usually invites top 10-15 prospects.

— Chad Ford (@chadfordinsider) June 25, 2012

That's just more evidence that the red flag is legitimate and that teams could be backing off him rather quickly. Sullinger could still go high given his talent that he's shown thus far, but it's all about returns and what a team thinks he'll bring back in exchange for that pick.

More recently, Sullinger worked out with the Cleveland Cavaliers. They pick No. 4 in the draft but it doesn't seem like there's any shot he actually goes that early. While it was previously thought he wouldn't be around, it's now possible that Sullinger is in play to be picked by the Cavs at No. 24, providing they hang on to that pick.

For more on the Cleveland Cavaliers, go to Fear The Sword. You can also check out professional basketball news from around the league over at SB Nation's NBA page.

2012 NBA Draft: Bobcats, Cavaliers First-Round Swap Makes Sense For Both Teams

The Charlotte Bobcats have one of the biggest decision to make in the upcoming 2012 NBA Draft. Anthony Davis is going to go No. 1 overall to the New Orleans Hornets, but that's where everything gets a little fuzzy. Michael Kidd-Gilchrist is a player who many believe is the second-best guy in the draft, but it's not as simple as drafting the best when the talent level is so close and the needs are so specific.

Charlotte could be after Kidd-Gilchrist, or perhaps after a guy like Bradley Beal. But another option is the possibility of a trade. One trade in particular seems to make sense - a trade with the Cleveland Cavaliers at No. 4. We've already established that the Cavaliers would like to make this happen, but does it make sense for the Bobcats?

The Charlotte Observer notes that it does indeed make sense, as acquiring that No. 24 pick in the trade (on top of also picking fourth) would really benefit the Bobcats and fit with their strategy going forward:

Say, for the sake of argument, that the Bobcats don't have a huge preference between Robinson, Barnes or Beal. Coming off a 7-59 season, the Bobcats have holes to fill everywhere, so adding a second first-round pick could be worth dropping from two to four. Cho's Thunder sure made out well in 2008, picking Serge Ibaka 24th overall.

Charlotte wants to stockpile and pick up more first-round picks, especially when the trade only includes them dropping down two spots. It's not as though the next guy is on the same level as Anthony Davis - there's a consensus that the next run of guys are all about the same in regards to talent level.

Cleveland, on the other hand, seems to feel that a guy like Beal is more important to them than the other guys, and there's a strong feeling that the Washington Wizards will be taking Beal. It does seem like a trade that benefits both teams, especially when you also consider how young the Cavaliers are and how it might not be in their best interest to add a couple more first rounders to an already inexperienced team.

For more on the Cleveland Cavaliers, go to Fear The Sword. You can also check out professional basketball news from around the league over at SB Nation's NBA page.

2012 NBA Mock Draft: Cavaliers Pick Michael Kidd-Gilchrist In SB Nation Mock

Harrison Barnes and Bradley Beal have been the two soups of the day for the Cleveland Cavaliers in mock drafts for the past few weeks, but a third party has been emerging recently in Kentucky's Michael Kidd-Gilchrist. In SB Nation's latest NBA Mock Draft, they had all of the network's team blogs make the picks and Fear The Sword went with MKG instead of Barnes or Beal.

Beal was already off the board after the Wizards took him at pick No. 3, and they let Barnes fall while saying that the Barnes interest was 'overblown':

Much has been said about the Cavaliers' interest in Harrison Barnes, but that is somewhat overblown. In this case, the Cavs will happily take Michael-Kidd Gilchrist with the fourth pick. We weren't really expecting MKG to fall this far as many consider him the 2nd best player in the draft. With MKG, the Cavs get a tough, competitive player to fill one of their biggest holes. MKG adds much needed defense, athleticism, and should help turn Cleveland into a winning culture. His ability to attack the rim and finish in transition is exactly what Kyrie Irving needs. Did we mention that MKG and Kyrie played high school basketball together? This seems like a no-brainer.

Of course, with rumors starting to emerge that the Cavs might be looking to trade with the Bobcats to get the second overall pick, the three way name group that this pick encompasses already may just keep getting bigger.

For more on the Cleveland Cavaliers, go to Fear The Sword. You can also check out professional basketball news from around the league over at SB Nation's NBA page.

NBA Draft Rumors: Could Draymond Green Interest Cavs At No. 24?

In her "Hey, Mary" Mailbag, the Cleveland Plain-Dealer's Mary Schmitt Boyer says Michigan State forward Draymond Green could be an option for the Cavaliers at Pick No. 24.

Boyer goes on to say that perhaps Cleveland will look for more size with the pick. Green stands only 6-foot-7, undersized for a power forward by NBA standards, and it may not make sense to take another wing-type player if the Cavs decide to take Harrison Barnes at No. 4.

With NBA Rookie of the Year Kyrie Irving already at point guard, Boyer (and she's not alone) thinks the Cavs would do well to add a scoring forward, though if Florida guard Bradley Beal remains on the board at No. 4, it would be tempting for Cleveland to take him there. Beal measured almost 6-5 at the NBA Combine and could quickly team with Irving to form a formidable back court.

One thing Boyer makes clear, however, is that nothing about the Cavs' upcoming draft is clear at all.

For Cleveland Cavaliers news and updates, head over to Fear The Sword. For all things NBA, check out SB Nation's NBA Page.

2012 NBA Draft: Cavaliers Looking To Trade Pick With Bobcats In Order To Assure They Get Bradley Beal

For the last few weeks, the two top prospects when it's come to the Cleveland Cavaliers in the upcoming NBA Draft have been Florida's Bradley Beal and UNC's Harrison Barnes. Just about every mock draft and every report has had one of those two being 'the guy' for the Cavs.

We know that Anthony Davis is probably going to be the pick for the New Orleans Hornets with the first overall pick, but depending on what the Charlotte Bobcats do with the second overall pick, there might be a different name on the Cavs' card. Both Beal and Barnes could potentially be selected above the Cavs' pick at fourth overall, and according to SI.com the Cavs have been trying to trade their pick to the Bobcats in order to assure they get their man. Their man, of course, is most recently looking like it's Beal:

As Charlotte continues to ponder its decision at No. 2, numerous executives expect the Bobcats to be approached by Cleveland (No. 4) about the possibility of swapping picks (if it hasn't happened already) in order for the Cavaliers to land Florida shooting guard Bradley Beal. While Cavs point guard Kyrie Irving is known to be a huge proponent of drafting North Carolina small forward Harrison Barnes, it appears Beal has shot up their big board just as he has so many others, and it's widely believed that he won't get past Washington at No. 3 if they don't make a move.

If a trade never gets worked out -- or hasn't already but hasn't been released yet -- the Cavs could pick up Barnes, but Thomas Robinson out of Kansas could be another surprise name to consider. Robinson had an immensely successful workout for the Cavs, having his way with Andre Drummond and impressing a lot of people.

Of course, that might have just made the Bobcats want him more, which could kill a trade. Ah, NBA Draft rumors!

For more on the Cleveland Cavaliers, go to Fear The Sword. You can also check out professional basketball news from around the league over at SB Nation's NBA page.

2012 NBA Draft: Thomas Robinson Impressive In Cavs Workout

Although the Cavaliers seem to be targeting either Bradley Beal or Harrison Barnes, they spent time evaluating a couple of bigs today. Thomas Robinson and Andre Drummond squared off and the early word is that Robinson was decisively better.

In the continuing draft circuit, I'm told Kansas F Thomas Robinson had his way w/ UConn C Andre Drummond in a Cleveland workout today (No.2)

— Sam Amick (@sam_amick) June 21, 2012

Although it's good for Robinson, this isn't exactly huge news. Robinson has long been considered the more NBA-ready prospect while Drummond has been viewed as a project that would need a few years to develop.

Robinson might be taken by the Charlotte Bobcats with the No. 2 pick while Drummond will almost certainly be on the board for Cleveland.

For more on the Cleveland Cavaliers, go to Fear The Sword. You can also check out professional basketball news from around the league over at SB Nation's NBA page.

2012 NBA Draft: Cavaliers Could Still Go Many Ways After Top Players Wrap-Up Workouts

We're circling the wagon at this point, but there is still legitimate doubts as to who the Cleveland Cavaliers are going to be taking with the No. 4 overall pick in the 2012 NBA Draft. There's plenty of candidates, from Michael Kidd-Gilchrist to Bradley Beal to Harrison Barnes. Most are of the opinion that Beal is the guy, including ESPN's Chad Ford:

The Cavs have their list narrowed down to MKG, Beal and Barnes. It's very difficult to get a read right now on which way the Cavs are leaning. I think if Beal's there, he's the most obvious candidate. They need a 2 desperately and need the shooting. If it's Kidd-Gilchrist versus Barnes, it may be a toss-up.

The big theory is that Kidd-Gilchrist will be gone at No. 2 to the Charlotte Bobcats, while the Washington Wizards were going to take one of Kidd-Gilchrist and Beal. With the recent trade that the Wizards made that landed them Trevor Ariza, it's likely that they'll be after someone like Beal.

Which, of course, would leave the Cavaliers with Barnes. Here's what Ford had to say of Barnes and how the Cavs may be interested in him:

Barnes also is a serious candidate to go No. 4 to the Cavs. As I've reported previously, the Cavs had Barnes No. 2 on their Big Board last year behind Kyrie Irving and is an obvious fit there. The team needs more shooters and could use the help at the 3. If Beal is off the board, I think it comes down to Barnes and Kidd-Gilchrist.

Ford also goes on to note reports that said that Beal bested Barnes at a joint workout, but that the Cavaliers don't put too much stock into such things. Then you have the possibility of Kidd-Gilchrist further messing with things if he's still available, and it's all very confusing.

That being said, by all accounts, the Cavaliers would be very happy with any one of the three. In fact, they're likely going to be in a position where there's only one of the three available, depending on where it is that Thomas Robinson goes. It should be a very interesting draft, to say the least.

For more on the Cleveland Cavaliers, go to Fear The Sword. You can also check out professional basketball news from around the league over at SB Nation's NBA page.

NBA Draft 2012: Cavaliers To Take Harrison Barnes, According To SI.com Mock

The Cleveland Cavaliers will take former North Carolina Tar Heel Harrison Barnes No. 4 overall in the upcoming NBA Draft, according to a recent SI.com mock.

The mock draft, written up by Sam Amick, has Kentucky's Anthony Davis going No. 1, followed by Bradley Beal (Florida) and Thomas Robinson (Kansas) at Nos. 2 and 3.

Amick writes:

The Cavs are still a moving target when it comes to assessing their pick, and the contingent that believes Beal would be taken over Barnes has grown. I'm sticking to what I was told early in the process: They're in love with Barnes. But as I said at the start, things can always change and the buzz around Beal has been extremely loud lately. Barnes worked out against Beal on Saturday, and sources confirmed reports that Beal was the perceived winner. But even if Beal were still available in this scenario, this isn't about a glorified one-on-one scrimmage between players who play different positions.

The SI.com mock looks much the same as the most recent mock from DraftExpress.com -- save, of course, that DraftExpress has the Cavs taking Kentucky's Michael Kidd-Gilchrist at No.4, and Barnes dropping to No. 5.

For more on the Cleveland Cavaliers, go to Fear The Sword. You can also check out professional basketball news from around the league over at SB Nation's NBA page, or watch SB Nation's YouTube channel:

2012 NBA Draft: Fab Melo To Work Out For Cavaliers

Syracuse center Fab Melo is set to work out for the Cleveland Cavaliers, possibly on Friday, via Bob Finnan of The News Herald.

News of the reported workout comes on the heels of the 7-foot, 255-pound Big East Player of the Year addressing the academic suspension that took him out of the NCAA Tournament in March, via The Associated Press.

"It was academic," Melo said Tuesday after working out for the Pacers in Indianapolis. "They ask, I explain (what) happened -- that I came from another country and until four years ago didn't even speak English."

Melo is in play for Cleveland's No. 24 pick in the draft, though his stock has gone up recently. He has been linked to the Celtics at No. 21 and No. 22 and SB Nation's Tom Ziller has him going No. 16 to Houston in his latest mock draft.

For more on the Cleveland Cavaliers, go to Fear The Sword. You can also check out professional basketball news from around the league over at SB Nation's NBA page.

Jared Sullinger To Work Out For Cavs Friday

On Friday, former Ohio State product Jared Sullinger is expected to workout for the Cleveland Cavaliers in anticipation of the 2012 NBA Draft, which is set to be held on June 28.

Sullinger was initially projected as a lottery selection before being medically red flagged by NBA doctors who have discovered an issue with the player's back that potentially could shorten his career and will likely cause him to free-fall in next week's draft.

Via The Morning Journal:

"He probably won't be drafted earlier than No. 12," said Joe Kotoch of NBAdraftinsider.com. "Houston has two picks. The Rockets might take a shot at this guy (at Nos. 14 and 16). Otherwise, I could see Minnesota (No. 18) or Boston (Nos. 21 and 22)."

If Sullinger does fall in the draft, he potentially could be available at the No. 24 selection, which the Cavs currently own.

For more on the Cleveland Cavaliers, go to Fear The Sword. You can also check out professional basketball news from around the league over at SB Nation's NBA page.

Hornets-Wizards Trade Has Implications For Cavaliers' Draft

The Cleveland Cavaliers are in a good position in the draft. Sure, they're not going to walk away with Anthony Davis like the New Orleans Hornets surely will, but they're still set with excellent picks and can add some real talent come draft day. The 2012 NBA Draft is just over a week away and many figure the Cavaliers are going to go after one of Harrison Barnes and Bradley Beal.

Well, if they were struggling with the decision at all, it might have been made a bit easier for them if the Washington Wizards are going to do what everyone expects of them now that they've made a big trade with the Hornets. Washington just traded Rashard Lewis and the No. 46 pick in the upcoming draft to New Orleans in exchange for Emeka Okafor and Trevor Ariza.

More details of the trade can be found here at the SB Nation NBA hub.

The reason this impacts the Cavaliers is the fact that it now seems very likely that Washington drafts Beal. They had reportedly narrowed it down to Beal and Michael Kidd-Gilchrist, but the players acquired in the trade seem to disqualify Kidd-Gilchrist from consideration. This could mean that Beal is their guy, which means the Cavaliers could be left with Barnes.

Recently, SB Nation had Barnes going to Cleveland in their mock draft, and pointed out the fact that he recently cancelled a workout with the Sacramento Kings, and that it's likely the Cavaliers have told him they'd take him if he's available, so there's that.

For more on the Cleveland Cavaliers, go to Fear The Sword. You can also check out professional basketball news from around the league over at SB Nation's NBA page.

2012 NBA Mock Draft: SB Nation's Latest Mock Has Harrison Barnes Going To Cleveland

It's getting to the point now where you can essentially, when predicting mock draft selections for the Cleveland Cavaliers' fourth overall selection, just put the names Bradley Beal and Harrison Barnes into a hat and pick one. In fact, go do that now, you'll have a 50 percent chance of getting it right when you open any random mock draft.

So, no guesses who Tom Ziller's latest 2012 NBA Mock Draft has going to the Cavs at fourth overall. If you picked Harrison Barnes out of the hat, you've got it absolutely right:

According to Sacramento-based James Ham, Barnes was supposed to work out for the Kings on Friday. He canceled. He visited the Cavaliers on Saturday. HMM. My guess is that the Cavaliers told Barnes' camp that they'd take him if he was on the board.

Once again, this is likely to change as seemingly every day, a new report comes out saying that the Cavs are leaning one way or the other in here. It's going to be great when they take Michael Kidd-Gilchrist and troll us all on draft day, eh?

For more on the Cleveland Cavaliers, go to Fear The Sword. You can also check out professional basketball news from around the league over at SB Nation's NBA page, or watch SB Nation's YouTube channel:

NBA Draft 2012: Jared Sullinger's Agent Brushes Off 'Red Flag' Report, According To SI.com

Jared Sullinger's agent downplayed his client being "red flagged" by doctors at a pre-draft camp earlier this month, according to a post from SI.com.

Reports surfaced this week that doctors were concerned with Sullinger's back. Sullinger's father told ESPN.com that it was nothing serious, and Sullinger's agent, David Falk, echoed those sentiments to SI.com:

"Jared has consulted with one of the foremost specialists of backs and spines, who has vast experience treating professional athletes," Falk told SI.com. "He has explained to us that Jared had extremely tight hamstrings that became tight because he had suffered an injury that I don't think he was aware of to his hamstring. He needs to maintain vigilance with his flexibility. And if he does that, and keeps his weight at an appropriate level, then he should have absolutely no problems over the next 15 years."

Sullinger, who played two years at Ohio State, missed two games last year because of back spasms. The 6-9 sophomore averaged 17.5 points and 9.2 rebounds for the Buckeyes.

For more on the Cleveland Cavaliers, go to Fear The Sword. You can also check out professional basketball news from around the league over at SB Nation's NBA page. For more on the Ohio State Buckeyes, check out Land-Grant Holy Land. You can also learn more about college basketball around the nation at SB Nation's College Basketball hub. You can also watch SB Nation's YouTube channel:

2012 NBA Draft: Cavaliers Still Projected To Take Bradley Beal, Andrew Nicholson In Round 1, According To DraftExpress

The Cleveland Cavaliers are expected to use their Nos. 4 and 24 picks on Bradley Beal and Andrew Nicholson, respectively, according to DraftExpress.com's latest mock draft.

Beal, a 6-4 guard, played one year at Florida, while Nicholson, a 6-9 forward, was a four-year player at St. Bonaventure.

Last week's mock also had the Cavs taking Beal and Nicholson. But that doesn't mean the Cavs are sitting on their hands.

On Saturday, Cleveland worked out Beal and North Carolina swing man Harrison Barnes, and on Monday the Cavaliers held a workout with Vanderbilt's Festus Ezeli. Next up is Kentucky's Michael Kidd-Gilchrist, who on Wendesday will be in Cleveland for a workout of his own.

Kidd-Gilchrist is currently slated to go No. 3 to the Charlotte Bobcats, but Barnes should be available at No. 4 and Ezeli at No. 24.

For more on the Cleveland Cavaliers, go to Fear The Sword. You can also check out professional basketball news from around the league over at SB Nation's NBA page, or watch SB Nation's YouTube channel:

NBA Draft Rumors: Brad Beal Has Slight Edge After Workout With Harrison Barnes

The Cleveland Cavaliers have just over a week before they add their next big piece in the rebuilding efforts now spearheaded by Kyrie Irving. The Cavs will select an elite-level talent with the No. 4 overall pick, but after Anthony Davis, there's no consensus that is coalescing around the top three selections. Brad Beal, Michael Kidd-Gilchrist, Harrison Barnes, Thomas Robinson, and Andre Drummond are all names that have been bandied about in the top four after Davis.

Chad Ford attempts to sort out the scenarios after the first pick, and concludes there are ten different variations still in the play. If Robinson or Drummond go in the top three, the Cavs could end up having a choice between Beal and Barnes. Those two went through a workout together over the weekend, and Ford indicates Beal, however slightly, got the better of Barnes in their head-to-head matchup:

The Cavs had the best workout of the year so far on Saturday. Beal and Barnes went head to head against each other. Despite the size disadvantage, a source close to the Cavs said that Beal had a slightly better workout.

However, they were quick to caution that the workouts were just a small piece of the puzzle in the overall draft evaluation. The Cavs are expected to get Kidd-Gilchrist into town on Wednesday. Drummond is also expected to come in this week. Both players are also seriously in the mix, according to sources.

For more news, analysis, and discussion on the Cavaliers Draft, visit Fear The Sword. For more on the NBA Lottery and the 2012 Draft, check out SB Nation's NBA hub.

NBA Draft 2012: Cavaliers Work Out Vanderbilt Center Festus Ezeli

The Cleveland Cavaliers worked out Festus Ezeli, a center from Vanderbilt, on Monday at Cleveland Clinic Courts. Ezeli is 6-11 and he is the Commodores' all-time leader in blocked shots.

Even after four years in school, the 22-year-old is still fairly raw. He had never picked up a basketball when he arrived in Sacramento from Nigeria at age 14 and had never played organized basketball before committing to Vanderbilt. He was cut from his high school team, via Jason Lloyd of the Akron Beacon Journal.

"Just imagine a 5-year-old in a 20-year-old's body," Ezeli said. "I had no coordination. I couldn't even walk and chew gum at the same time back then."

Ezeli had a breakout year last season, averaging 10.1 points and two blocks in 23.2 minutes per game. He is projected to be a late first/early second round pick. The Cavs could target him with picks at No. 24, 33 and 34.

For more news, analysis, and discussion on the Cavaliers Draft, visit Fear The Sword. For more on the NBA Lottery and the 2012 Draft, check out SB Nation's NBA hub.

NBA Draft 2012: Former Ohio State Standout Jared Sullinger Red Flagged By Doctors, According To Report

According to a report filed by ESPN.com on Monday, Ohio State big man Jared Sullinger has been medically red flagged by NBA doctors. Sullinger was expected to be a lottery pick in the 2012 NBA Draft, but now a potential back issue may be the sole reason why he free-falls out of the first round.

ESPN.com's report stated that a number of league doctors have looked over the medical report and have informed their respective teams that Sullinger's back issue may shorten his career; some have even gone as far to recommend that their teams do not select him in the first round.

When asked for comment, Sullinger's agent David Falk declined, while his father Satch downplayed the severity of his son's back issue.

Via ESPN.com:

"He had a bulging area that was due to his hamstring and quads being so tight," Satch Sullinger told ESPN.com senior college basketball writer Andy Katz in a phone call Monday afternoon. "It pulled on his hip flexor and he's been taking care of it to loosen it. You can call it a red flag if you want. But it's tight hamstring and tight quads. He's been to doctors, he's doing yoga and deep tissue massage. The flexibility is helping take the pressure off the area.

"We've got nothing to hide. At this stage it's all about what they can't do. Jared is a skilled player. A two-time All-American. He can play."

For more news, analysis, and discussion on the Cavaliers Draft, visit Fear The Sword. For more on the NBA Lottery and the 2012 Draft, check out SB Nation's NBA hub.

Cavaliers To Workout Michael Kidd-Gilchrist On Wednesday

On Wednesday, the Cleveland Cavaliers will have Kentucky standout Michael Kidd-Gilchrist come to Cleveland for a workout in anticipation of the upcoming NBA Draft on June 28. The Cavaliers currently have possession of the No. 4 overall selection and will be looking to add a player capable of helping out reigning Rookie of the Year, Kyrie Irving.

Kidd-Gilchrist may be the perfect candidate to do just that as he and Irving both played together at St. Patrick's in Elizabeth, New Jersey, where the two helped the school win the State Prep title.

Kentucky's Michael Kidd-Gilchrist to work out for #Cavaliers on Wednesday.

— Tom Withers (@twithersAP) June 18, 2012

Ultimately, Kidd-Gilchrist may not be available at No. 4 as many outlets have projected him to be selected by the Charlotte Bobcats at No. 2, who he worked out with on Monday. During the workout, he fell and apparently hurt his back, but he is expected to be fine for Wednesday.

Kidd-Gilchrist fell during #Bobcats workout, hurt back a bit. Says should be fine for workout Wed in Cleveland.

— Rick Bonnell (@rick_bonnell) June 18, 2012

For more news, analysis, and discussion on the Cavaliers Draft, visit Fear The Sword. For more on the NBA Lottery and the 2012 Draft, check out SB Nation's NBA hub.

2012 NBA Draft: Cavaliers Work Out UNC's Harrison Barnes, Florida's Bradley Beal

The Cleveland Cavaliers are looking for perimeter help in the NBA Draft to go along with rookie of the year, Kyrie Irving, and North Carolina's Harrison Barnes and Florida's Bradley Beal are both in the mix, according to the Akron Beacon Journal's Jason Lloyd. With the fourth selection in the June 28th draft, the Cavs should have plenty of options for the backcourt and on Saturday, they hosted Barnes and Beal in a private workout to further evaluate two of their options at that spot.

Beal is routinely rated as the best shooting guard in the draft. He's only 6-foot-4 but so is Dwyane Wade and Beal had no problems getting his shot off against the 6-foot-8 Barnes. Barnes is more of a pure small forward though shooting guard has been mentioned by a couple of teams at the top of the draft as a possible future position of his.

Beal and Barnes will try to improve a long line of shooting guard mishaps in Cavs history since they traded Ron Harper three years into his career after drafting him eighth overall in 1986.

Based on workout performance - they both played well - and need, Beal would seem to have the edge to come off the board at this spot. It just makes more sense to solidify the backcourt of the future with a pure shooting guard next to a pure point guard in Irving.

For more news, analysis, and discussion on the Cavaliers Draft, visit Fear The Sword. For more on the NBA Lottery and the 2012 Draft, check out SB Nation's NBA hub.

2012 NBA Mock Draft: Cleveland Selects Bradley Beal In Yahoo! Mock

The two biggest names for the Cleveland Cavaliers in the past few weeks when it's come to the fourth overall pick in NBA mock drafts have been Harrison Barnes and Bradley Beal. Beal in particular has been a favorite pick because of the Cavs' lack of solid backcourt options outside of their rookie of the year, Kyrie Irving.

In that regard, it's no surprise that in Yahoo!'s latest 2012 NBA Mock Draft, they give the Cavs the Florida SG for that very reasoning:

Sporting virtually nothing in their backcourt going into next season outside of Rookie of the Year Kyrie Irving, the Cavs need immediate help at the shooting guard position. Beal has the perfect skill set and demeanor to complement Irving, which should make him an extremely attractive pick. Harrison Barnes will likely also get a long look here, even if he's reportedly not quite as close with Kyrie Irving as some have made them out to be.

Both Barnes and Harrison have been confirmed to have a workout scheduled with the Cavaliers, so those two names will probably remain the favorites for the foreseeable future. We can expect juggling of the two names depending on what the Cavaliers look like they're leaning toward at the time right up until they either make their selection crystal clear or draft day happens.

For more news, analysis, and discussion on the Cavaliers Draft, visit Fear The Sword. For more on the NBA Lottery and the 2012 Draft, check out SB Nation's NBA hub.

Cavaliers To Workout Harrison Barnes, Bradley Beal On Saturday

The Cleveland Cavaliers are bringing in Harrison Barnes and Bradley Beal to work them out as part of their draft preparation. Beal has already confirmed that he will be heading to a workout with the Cavaliers.

Beal has already been linked to the Cavs with their No. 4 pick in various NBA mock drafts, and Barnes has been looked at as an option as well with that No 4 pick. This workout will give the Cavaliers a chance to see both players in person and see how they compete against each other as well as in the drills presented to them.

This workout could be the determining factor in who Cleveland will ultimately take with their No. 4 overall pick.

However, there is one other player that the Cavs are looking hard at with their No. 4 pick and that is Kentucky's Michael Kidd-Gilchrist, but his availability at the No. 4 spot is unlikely.

NBA Mock Draft 2012: Brad Beal, Fab Melo Land With Cavs In Chad Ford Projection

The 2012 NBA Draft is two weeks away and the Cavaliers are bound to have options with the No. 4 overall pick. The Cavs reportedly, and understandably, have a strong interest in Harrison Barnes, Brad Beal, and Michael Kidd-Gilchrist. In Chad Ford's latest mock draft, Chris Grant and company have the ideal scenario of both Beal and Barnes being available at No. 4. Via Chad Ford:

The Cavs need a wing and like MKG, Beal and Harrison Barnes. Andre Drummond is also in the mix, but the Cavs don't yet have a comfort level with him. If this comes down to Beal or Barnes, I think Beal will have the slight edge here. But it's not a given. The Cavs have been interested in Barnes for the past year and could decide that his size is what they need.

It would be a real toss-up with both on the board, but obviously a good problem to have at this point. Either player would be a great running mate to pair with Kyrie Irving.

At No. 24, Ford thinks the Cavs address frontcourt needs and add Fab Melo, the giant Syracuse center prospect. Melo is a Brazilian native, has had some maturity issues but the veteran influence of fellow Brazilian Anderson Varejao could make this an intriguing project. Via Ford:

The Cavs could really use more help at the 5. Anderson Varejao is around for a few more years but after that the cupboard is bare. Melo might need a few years anyway before he's ready to be a serious contributor at the next level.

For more news, analysis, and discussion on the Cavaliers Draft, visit Fear The Sword. For more on the NBA Lottery and the 2012 Draft, check out SB Nation's NBA hub.

David Lighty Gets Free Agent Workout With Hometown Cavaliers

David Lighty's mom would more than love for him to be a Cavalier.

NBA Mock Draft 2012: Bradley Beal Still High On Cavaliers' List

The Cleveland Cavaliers have been interested in Florida's Bradley Beal throughout the draft process. With this in mind, it's no surprise that ESPN's Chad Ford has Beal slotted at the Cavs' No. 4 spot in his mock draft released Wednesday.

The Cavs need a wing and like MKG, Beal and Harrison Barnes. Andre Drummond is also in the mix, but the Cavs don't yet have a comfort level with him. If this comes down to Beal or Barnes, I think Beal will have the slight edge here.

While others such as Sports Illustrated's Sam Amick have the Cavaliers selecting Barnes, Beal and his agent appear to be confident he won't slip past Cleveland. He is scheduled to work out for the Cavs on Saturday and will not work out for teams beneath them in the lottery.

For more news, analysis, and discussion on the Cavaliers Draft, visit Fear The Sword. For more on the NBA Lottery and the 2012 Draft, check out SB Nation's NBA hub.

NBA Mock Draft 2012: Cavs Select Harrison Barnes, Andrew Nicholson In SI Projection

Sam Amick of Sports Illustrated was one of the first to report that the Cavaliers and Chris Grant were enamored with North Carolina wing Harrison Barnes. Amick also does a mock draft for SI and he thinks that despite their love affair with Barnes, the Cavs could still have a tough choice if Brad Beal slips past the top three. Beal is considered the best two-guard in the draft, and he's certainly one of the Cavs' top targets.

But Amick still thinks the Cavs go with Barnes, who had an impressive showing at the Draft Combine in Chicago last week. Via Sam Amick of Sports Illustrated:

While nothing has changed about the Cavs' love affair with Barnes, things could get very interesting if this scenario wound up playing out on draft night. Florida shooting guard Bradley Beal is also being strongly considered, and it's worth noting that his agent, Mark Bartelstein, has agreed to workouts with only the top four teams so far while denying requests by Sacramento (No. 5), Portland (No. 6) and Golden State (No. 7). Either player would be a quality addition to the young core led by Rookie of the Year Kyrie Irving. Barnes helped himself at the combine. He had a maximum vertical leap of 39.5 inches (Marquette's Darius Johnson-Odom had the highest mark at 41.5) and ran the fastest three-quarter court sprint at 3.16 seconds. Cleveland has four of the top 34 selections, and ESPN.com reported that the Hornets rejected Cleveland's offer of the fourth, 24th, 33rd and 34th picks for No. 1.

At No. 24, Amick tabs the Cavs with Andrew Nicholson, the dynamic front court player from St. Bonaventure. A number of projections seem to be coalescing around Nicholson as the top option and likely selection for the Cavaliers with their second pick of the first round.

For more news, analysis, and discussion on the Cavaliers Draft, visit Fear The Sword. For more on the NBA Lottery and the 2012 Draft, check out SB Nation's NBA hub.

NBA Mock Draft 2012: Cavs Take Bradley Beal, Andrew Nicholson In First Round, According To Mock

The Cleveland Cavaliers will draft one of the youngest players in this year's NBA Draft -- and then turn around and draft one of the very oldest.

DraftExpress predicts that the Cavs will take Florida shooting guard Bradley Beal at No. 4, and then take St. Bonaventure big man Andrew Nicholson at No. 24.

Beal is still 18 years-old and has just a few months on future first-rounders Michael Kidd-Gilchrist and Andre Drummond. Nicholson, meanwhile, is 22 -- one month older than fellow big man Tyler Zeller -- and will likely be oldest player taken in the first round.

Beal averaged 14.8 points and 6.7 rebounds last year as a 6-3 guard for the Gators.

The 6-9 Nicholson averaged 18.5 points, 8.4 rebounds and 2.0 blocks. Maybe most impressive, he shot 43.4 percent from downtown -- and that after not attempting a single three-pointer as a freshman or sophomore.

For more on the Cleveland Cavaliers, go to Fear The Sword. You can also check out professional basketball news from around the league over at SB Nation's NBA page, or watch SB Nation's YouTube channel:

NBA Draft: Cavaliers Need Immediate Impact Player

Instant gratification is just what Cavaliers, fans need.

Cavaliers Reportedly Offered Their Top Four Picks For The Right To Draft Anthony Davis

It's no secret that Anthony Davis is going to be the No. 1 overall pick in the NBA draft. It was no secret even when we didn't know which team was going to pick there, in much the same way that Andrew Luck was always going first overall in the 2012 NFL Draft, regardless if it was the Indianapolis Colts or somebody else. Davis is just that good and has that much potential.

As such, many believe that the New Orleans Hornets are going to take him in something of a perfect storm for them. While they're adamant that they're keeping their options open and fielding potential trade requests, just about everyone believes there is no chance of that pick being moved.

Still, that didn't stop the Cleveland Cavaliers from reportedly trying to make a deal for the pick, according to Chad Ford of ESPN.com with a H/T to IAmAGM.com

Is Anthony Davis a lock for the No. 1 pick? Yes, and it's not even close. Forget about the fact that the Hornets are saying publicly that they are still considering their options. He's the guy.

You can also forget about them trading the No. 1 pick. Sources say the Cavs offered them No. 4, No. 24, No. 33 and No. 34 for No. 1. And sources said the Cavs got a firm and quick "No!"

It's interesting to note that the Cavaliers made an offer, though it's totally unsurprising that they received a big, fat "no." That being said, it's a little surprising that they even made an offer, given the prevailing theory that the pick won't actually be traded under any circumstances. It will be interesting to see if the Cavaliers try to come back with even more future picks or something along those lines to take another run at it.

For more on the Cleveland Cavaliers, go to Fear The Sword. You can also check out professional basketball news from around the league over at SB Nation's NBA page.

NBA Draft 2012: Brad Beal Will Workout For Cavaliers

One of the top targets in the 2012 NBA Draft is Florida two-guard Bradley Beal. The one-and-done Gator is an elite prospect who should not fall out of the top five. Once the Cavaliers did not land the No. 1 pick with some more lottery luck, initial reports from Chad Ford indicated that they were hoping to get either Beal or Michael Kidd-Gilchrist out of this June's draft.

The Cavaliers will work out dozens of players in their preparations and Mary Schmitt Boyer of the Plain Dealer reports that Beal will indeed by one of them. The Cavs are apparently the team with the lowest pick that he will work out for, according to his agent. Via @PDCavsInsider:

Agents Mark Bartelstein says Bradley Beal will work out for the #Cavs on Saturday. He's not working out for any teams below the No. 4 Cavs

— M.S. Boyer/J. Valade (@PDcavsinsider) June 11, 2012

Many mock drafts predict that Beal will go ahead of the Cavaliers in the top three, but if he does fall to No. 4, it would be hard for Chris Grant to pass up the opportunity to pair him with Kyrie Irving as Cleveland's backcourt of the future.

For more news, analysis, and discussion on the Cavaliers Draft, visit Fear The Sword. For more on the NBA Lottery and the 2012 Draft, check out SB Nation's NBA hub.

2012 NBA Mock Draft: Cleveland Selects Harrison Barnes, Royce White In CBS Mock

The odds-on favorite right now for the Cleveland Cavaliers' first selection in the 2012 NBA Draft seems to be forward Harrison Barnes out of North Carolina. Most sources have said that he's the favorite prospect of the Cavs right now with their fourth overall pick in the draft, and CBSSports.com agrees it seems. In their new 2012 NBA Mock Draft they take the easy route and give Barnes to the Cavs:

Harrison Barnes, SF, North Carolina: The Cavs have enough high-motor guys with Anderson Verejao and Tristan Thompson; Chris Grant needs a skilled player and Barnes is the ideal fit here. He and Kyrie Irving are also tight -- which won't hurt the case.

The mock draft has the Cavaliers opting for another forward -- a PF this time around -- with their No. 25 pick, Iowa State's Royce White:

Royce White, PF, Iowa State: He's big, strong, plays with a high-motor and also has a high basketball IQ. Cleveland could use someone like White -- who makes people around him better from the forward spot.

There will be plenty of options for the Cavs at those two slots, either way the Cavs will have an influx of solid young talent going into the 2012/2013 NBA season.

For more news, analysis, and discussion on the Cavaliers Draft, visit Fear The Sword. For more on the NBA Lottery and the 2012 Draft, check out SB Nation's NBA hub.

Cavs Draft Rumors: Blazers Discussing Trade With Cleveland, According To Report

With the 2012 NBA Draft a little more than two weeks away, the rumors are flying as teams try to jostle for position and decipher the tea leaves. One rumor that surfaced over the weekend after the conclusion of the pre-draft combine in Chicago involves the Cavaliers swapping picks with the Portland Trail Blazers. Portland and Cleveland are two teams that have multiple first round selections, with Cleveland holding No. 4 and No. 24 and Portland having No. 6 and No. 11. According to Alex Kennedy of HoopsWorld, the two teams have talked about exchanging their picks:

Cleveland and Portland have talked about swapping draft picks, according to source. Cavs would get #6 and #11, Blazers would get #4 and #24.

— Alex Kennedy (@AlexKennedyNBA) June 10, 2012

It's certainly an interesting rumor, with the Cavaliers jumping up significantly with the second first-round selection. Cleveland is looking to add a big-name to pair with Kyrie Irving, and this Draft has a top tier of six players.

For more news, analysis, and discussion on the Cavaliers Draft, visit Fear The Sword. For more on the NBA Lottery and the 2012 Draft, check out SB Nation's NBA hub.

NBA Draft 2012: Cleveland Cavaliers Also Considering Andre Drummond At No. 4 Overall

While the majority of the mock drafts and early reports have the Cleveland Cavaliers linked to North Carolina's Harrison Barnes with the No. 4 overall pick in the 2012 NBA Draft, they are still considering others at that position, including UConn's Andre Drummond:

The Cavs appear to be considering Connecticut center Andre Drummond with their fourth overall selection, despite the face that he could be the riskiest pick in the entire draft.

Drummond is a major project. If a team is willing to be patient with him, it could pay off in a big way. Centers are so hard to find these days.

One scout went so far as to compare Drummond with Magic center Dwight Howard, a perennial Defensive Player of the Year candidate. That may be a bit far-fetched, but one can see the potential.

He said his interview with the Cavs went well on Thursday. He said he'd work out for five teams, likely ones with picks Nos. 2 through 6.

Of course, the Cavaliers are in a great position to consider plenty of options in what is shaping up to be a very deep draft. The experts at SB Nation's Cleveland Cavaliers blog Fear the Sword are certainly aware of this pre-draft process and are intrigued by Drummond's potential:

If you have been paying attention, you'll realize that the Cavaliers are in a position that allows them to consider basically every player in their range. We hear that they are interested in Barnes. Then we hear that they are interesting in MKG. Now -- Drummond. Get used to it. They haven't made up their minds and are simply making sure that they cover all of their bases before making a decision on June 28th.

Personally, I'm intrigued by the idea of Andre Drummond. His potential is off the charts. He could be an NBA superstar. He could also just be a defensive specialist. Either way, I believe you're getting a useful player. The question is whether or not the potential reward is worth the risk of selecting him fourth overall.

For more news, analysis, and discussion on the Cavaliers Draft, visit Fear The Sword. For more on the NBA Lottery and the 2012 Draft, check out SB Nation's NBA hub.

NBA Draft Rumors: Brad Beal Needs 'Knock-Down' Workout To Dislodge Harrison Barnes On Cavs' Draft Board

It wasn't the pick that the Cleveland Cavaliers were hoping for when the lottery gave them the fourth overall selection, but they'll still have a chance to get a solid player there. That player looks increasingly like it's going to be North Carolina's Harrison Barnes, despite many mock drafts and analysts thinking that it would be Florida's Bradley Beal.

According to a short blurb on a Sporting News piece on the NBA draft, the Cavs have had their eyes on Barnes for a while and he seems to be the favorite to get drafted if the Cavs can't pick up Michael Kidd-Gilchrist, an unlikely situation. Barnes has apparently moved ahead of Beal on the Cavaliers' draft board, with the Florida guard needing an impressive workout to change things:

Lightning did not strike again for the Cavaliers at the lottery, but Cleveland is in a good position to add the kind of player it needs — a wing to run with Kyrie Irving. The Cavs have long had their eyes on North Carolina’s Harrison Barnes, though they might turn to Michael Kidd-Gilchrist if he falls to No. 4. He probably won’t.

Florida guard Bradley Beal is a possibility, too, but a source told SN that Barnes can be penciled in for the Cavs, with Beal needing a knock-down workout to dislodge him.

For more news, analysis, and discussion on the Cavaliers Draft, visit Fear The Sword. For more on the NBA Lottery and the 2012 Draft, check out SB Nation's NBA hub.

NBA Mock Draft 2012: Harrison Barnes Over Brad Beal At No. 4?

The Cleveland Cavaliers are in Chicago this week scouting an array of prospects at the NBA's Combine. Rumors surfaced this week that the Cavs were zeroing in on Harrison Barnes with the No. 4 pick. Some speculate that they're so high on Barnes that they will take the UNC wing over Florida guard Brad Beal, who's considered a top three talent. Sean Deveney of Sporting News is among that group, projecting Barnes at No. 4 with Beal still on the board.

In his mock draft, he has Kansas forward Thomas Robinson going No. 2 to Charlotte, with Washington scooping up Michael Kidd-Gilchrist at No. 3. That leaves Barnes for Chris Grant at No. 4:

4. Cleveland Cavaliers. Harrison Barnes, SF, North Carolina. Barnes might have gone No. 1 overall had he come out of school last year. Some scouts have cooled on him this year, though, as his numbers didn't show the dramatic improvement many hoped to see. But he still is a 6-8 athlete who can shoot.

With Barnes locked up at No. 4, Deveney thinks the Cavs take another small forward in Quincy Miller from Baylor with the Lakers' pick at No. 24:

24. Cleveland Cavaliers. Quincy Miller, SF, Baylor. It was generally believed that, without a big NCAA Tournament, Miller would go back to school for next season. Instead, he averaged 6.8 points on 35.5 percent shooting for the Bears, and still came out. He has talent, but isn't NBA-ready.

For more news, analysis, and discussion on the Cavaliers Draft, visit Fear The Sword. For more on the NBA Lottery and the 2012 Draft, check out SB Nation's NBA hub.

NBA Draft 2012: Cavaliers Meet With Several Players At Combine

With so much talent in this year's draft class, there are a lot of different way the Cleveland Cavaliers could go with the No. 4 pick. The Cavaliers met with several of those players at the NBA combine on Thursday, and the Akron Beacon Journal broke it all down.

The hot rumor surrounding the pick is that Harrison Barnes will join the Cavaliers. Barnes is good friends with Kyrie Irving and signed with his agent.

The thought, though, is that if Michael Kidd-Gilchrist somehow falls to the No. 4 pick, Cleveland will not hesitate to grab him. For what it's worth, Kidd-Gilchrist spent a month training in Cleveland for the combine.

Other potential targets at No. 4 are Perry Jones III and Bradley Beal, who said, "I'd love to play with Kyrie Irving." Beal, thought to be just a shooting guard, was promoting himself as a combo guard at the combine.

Finally two names that are connected with Cleveland for their second pick at No. 24 are Doron Lamb and Tyshawn Taylor.

For more news, analysis, and discussion on the Cavaliers Draft, visit Fear The Sword. For more on the NBA Lottery and the 2012 Draft, check out SB Nation's NBA hub.

NBA Mock Draft 2012: Harrison Barnes Lands With Cavs, In SB Nation Mock

One week removed fro the NBA Lottery, the silly season of rumors is kicking into full swing. The top of the Draft is fairly settled around six top prospects, and the Cavaliers will have their choice of a several top talents. With Anthony Davis going No. 1 overall, it's unlikely the Cavs go outside the trio of Michael Kidd-Gilchrist, Bradley Beal, or Harrison Barnes. There have been reports linking the Cavaliers' interest to all three at the fourth overall, with the obvious reality that not all of them will be available.

Tom Ziller of SB Nation projects that MKG and Beal will go second and third overall, leaving the Cavs with Barnes. Andre Drummond, Thomas, Robinson, and even Jeremy Lamb (according to Chad Ford) could be potential other options, but it's likely Chris Grant does not let Barnes get past four:

The Robinson situation is interesting because both the Wizards and Cavaliers invested top-6 picks in power forwards in 2011. If Charlotte passes on him, he could slip right down to No. 5. Cleveland most assuredly would prefer MKG or Beal here, but Barnes is the next best non-PF and -- more importantly -- is not Andre Drummond, who like 2011 pick Tristan Thompson is a project.

For more news, analysis, and discussion on the Cavaliers Draft, visit Fear The Sword. For more on the NBA Lottery and the 2012 Draft, check out SB Nation's NBA hub.

NBA Mock Draft 2012: Cavs Select Harrison Barnes In Latest Chad Ford Projection

The NBA Draft rumors season is in full swing, and the Cavs have been reported as eyeing Harrison Barnes, Michael Kidd-Gilchrist, Brad Beal, and Jeremy Lamb. Chad Ford of ESPN released his latest mock draft, and while he thinks the Cavs would ideally like to land either MKG or Beal, he predicts both will be off the board and Chris Grant will select Harrison Barnes.

Ford also maintains that UConn wing Jeremy Lamb is still a possibility at No. 4 overall, which would certainly be against the conventional thinking and projections. But he still predicts the Cavs go with the athletic three from North Carolina:

Via Chad Ford:

Thomas Robinson may be the best player left on the board, but he's not a great fit with Tristan Thompson already in Cleveland. If both MKG and Beal are off the board, the choice will be between Harrison Barnes and Andre Drummond. Both fit needs and Drummond has crazy upside, but the Cavs loved Barnes at the No. 4 pick last year before he decided to go back to school. I think they'll roll the dice on him again this year. Watch out for Jeremy Lamb here as well. I hear he's the wild card at No. 4.

This also falls in line with reports this week that the Cavs are targeting Barnes and it's unlikely they let him slip past No. 4.

For more news, analysis, and discussion on the Cavaliers Draft, visit Fear The Sword. For more on the NBA Lottery and the 2012 Draft, check out SB Nation's NBA hub.

NBA Draft Rumors 2012: Cavs Targeting Harrison Barnes With 4th Pick

The Cleveland Cavaliers are reportedly eyeing Harrison Barnes with the No. 4 pick in this month's 2012 NBA Draft. Sam Amick of Sports Illustrated reports that the Cavs are unlikely to let Barnes slip past them at four, with Chris Grant and the front office very high on the wing from North Carolina. Via Sam Amick:

Sources say the Cavaliers are very high on the 20-year-old small forward and appear unlikely to let him slip past them at the No. 4 slot in the June 28 draft. While this week's predraft combine in Chicago (June 6-7), and the team workouts thereafter, could always change things, rival executives are planning for Barnes to be off the board by the time the fifth pick (Sacramento) rolls around.

"He's a pretty big deal to them," one such executive said.

Barnes is very good friends with the Cavaliers 2011 pick, Rookie of the Year Kyrie Irving. They both share the same agent and established a close friendship as the top two stars of their high school class. While many clamor for Michael Kidd-GIlchrit or Bradley Beal at No. 4, it's more likely that Barnes will be available and according to Amick, the Cavs are likely to snatch him up.

For more news, analysis, and discussion on the Cavaliers Draft, visit Fear The Sword. For more on the NBA Lottery and the 2012 Draft, check out SB Nation's NBA hub.

NBA Mock Draft 2012: Cavs Pass On Michael Kidd-Gilchrist For Harrison Barnes In CBS Projection

The Cavaliers will certainly be able to get an elite talent with the No. 4 overall pick in this month's 2012 Draft. With Anthony Davis off the board, Cavaliers fans are clamoring for either Brad Beal or Michael Kidd- Gilchrist, but there's certainly the possibility that both of those prospects are also off the board at No. 4.

We've also already heard that Cavs GM Chris Grant has both Beal and MKG as two top targets. But the latest mock draft from Jeff Goodman at CBSsports.com thinks the Cavaliers go a different direction, even with MKG on the board. He thinks the range of Harrison Barnes, and a preexisting relationship with Kyrie Irving, will win out:

The Cavs need a perimeter shooter -- and that's exactly what Barnes does well. He's also extremely tight with Cavs floor leader Kyrie Irving. In fact, they even share the same agent.

Drafting Barnes over Kidd-Gilchrist would be against the conventional projection, and while Barnes and Kyrie are very close, MKG and Irving have a comparable relationship from playing together at St. Patrick's in high school.

For more news, analysis, and discussion on the Cavaliers Draft, visit Fear The Sword. For more on the NBA Lottery and the 2012 Draft, check out SB Nation's NBA hub.

VIDEO: Lang Whitaker Goes Behind The Scenes At NBA Lottery, Gets Kyrie Irving To Sing

Cavs Draft Rumors: Cleveland Could Move Up To No. 2; High On Jeremy Lamb, According To Report

While the Cavs slipped a spot in Wednesday's lottery, the biggest loser was likely the Charlotte Bobcats. General Manager Rich Cho needed to land a franchise-altering prospect like Anthony Davis in Charlotte after setting a record for the worst winning percentage in NBA history. But now stuck at No. 2, there's plenty of speculation that Charlotte may be amenable to a trade down out of that spot in an effort to stockpile more picks.

One potential trade partner for the Bobcats could be the Cavs, who have four picks in the top 35, including two in the first round. Chad Ford adds to that speculation, writing that the Cavs would love to move up to get a shot at Michael Kidd-Gilchrist or Brad Beal. If they're unable to trade up and remain at No. 4, they will have plenty of decisions to make according to Ford. He seems to think that if either MKG or Beal slide past No. 3, the Cavs will pounce immediately. But if both are gone, they'll likely decide between Harrison Barnes, Andre Drummond, and....Jeremy Lamb? Via Chad Ford of ESPN:

The Cavaliers were really hoping to get either Kidd-Gilchrist or Beal out of this draft. Given our current mock, both players are off the board. We currently have the Cavs grabbing Harrison Barnes at No. 4. The Cavs actually were hoping that Barnes was going to be in the draft last year and sources say they would've grabbed him at No. 4. Do they still love him after a disappointing sophomore season? Are they willing to roll the dice on Drummond instead? I hear Jeremy Lamb isn't out of the question here, either.

Lamb is an intriguing prospect, a lengthy wing with a ton of athleticism and some range. He's been inconsistent through two seasons at Connecticut and like Barnes, had a disappointing sophomore season of his own. It would be taking a gamble on potential at No. 4.

For more news, analysis, and discussion on the Cavaliers Draft, visit Fear The Sword. For more on the NBA Lottery and the 2012 Draft, check out SB Nation's NBA hub.

2012 NBA Mock Draft: Cavs Select Thomas Robinson, With Brad Beal & Michael Kidd-Gilchrist Off The Board

The dust has settled on the lottery and plenty of NBA experts have weighed in with their mock drafts. With Anthony Davis off the board, Cavs fans generally seem to be hoping for either Bradley Beal or Michael Kidd-Gilchrist. It's also likely that those two will go to the Bobcats and Wizards, which would leave Chris Grant with a decision between Harrison Barnes, Andre Drummond, and Thomas Robinson.

The Cavs could use an upgrade at every position on the floor, save for point guard. This includes an addition at the power forward position, where Grant could choose another prospect to on the heels of last year's No. 4 pick, Tristan Thompson. With Beal and MKG off the board, Matt Moore thinks the Cavs will go that route and select Thomas Robinson of Kansas. Via Matt Moore of CBSSports.com:

With Tristan Thompson raw and not great offensively, Robinson brings a ton of muscle and some scoring ability down low. He and Thompson create a pair of athletic young guys for Irving to run with. Barnes is another option here.

Robinson would certainly add more energy in the paint and on the glass for the Cavaliers, but the ideal scenario still involves either Beal or MKG slipping out of the top three.

For more news, analysis, and discussion on the Cavaliers Draft, visit Fear The Sword. For more on the NBA Lottery and the 2012 Draft, check out SB Nation's NBA hub.

2012 NBA Draft: Cavs Could Look To Trade Up In Deal With Bobcats

More: SB Nation's latest NBA mock draft.

The Cleveland Cavaliers are happy with their placement in the 2012 NBA Draft, sitting with the No. 4 overall pick with a slew of impressive options available. They're also happy with the fact that they have four picks in the top 34 to work with, but it's not necessarily the best situation for them to use them.

Cleveland already boasts a young roster with some up-and-comers, and adding four more rookies to the equation could spell disastrous for on-the-court experience. As such, they could be looking to package some of those picks to move up even further from No. 4. They certainly don't need to, but a report from Ohio.com suggests that the team could really be interested in the move.

For one, the report suggests that Kentucky's Michael Kidd-Gilchrist is the team's No. 2 choice on their draft board behind Anthony Davis. It says that the Cavs like him more than guys like Bradley Beal, Harrison Barnes and Thomas Robinson. It also says that it gets a little murky after that point.

Adding to that is a quote from Cavs general manager Chris Grant, in which he notes the team likes to be aggressive:

"With our ownership group, they like being aggressive and we like being aggressive," Grant said. "We'll look at a lot of different options. I'd presume we'll be pretty active."

It will be interesting to see if the Cavaliers are able to work a deal out with the Charlotte Bobcats, who seem to be the only team interested in trading down in the top four. New Orleans is obviously going to stay at No. 1 and it looks like Washington is in no rush to move from No. 3, either. It would likely cost Cleveland both of their first-round picks, but if Kidd-Gilchrist is the guy they really want, then it could be worth it to them.

Cavaliers' Shot At No. 1 Pick Came Down To Final Lottery Ball

Better Fit for Cavs: Harrison Barnes or Bradley Beal?

At this point, it almost seems a foregone conclusion that the Cavaliers will take Florida shooting guard Brad Beal with the fourth overall pick should he be available when the draft rolls around in June, but is he for sure the best fit?

What do I know, really, I mean last year I thought the best option for the Cavs was to take Derrick Williams and Kemba Walker with their first two picks over Kyrie Irving and whatever else they could get, but they clearly made the correct choice in taking Irving. The NBA is a very point guard/star driven league, and Irving fits both categories. While Derrick Williams was the star of the NCAA tournament two years ago, Irving (who played a handful of games in college) was definitely a better NBA prospect.

The Cavs got that one right.

However, I think this year is a bit of a different story. The Cavs really need to surround Irving with the best talent possible, and last year’s “other” first round pick—Tristan Thompson—really didn’t make much of an impression and needs to make serious improvements this summer.

One thing that makes me think adding Beal could be a great move for the Cavs is that in the scouting report I read, it says he doesn’t need to dominate the ball to be an effective scorer. That is good news, since he won’t be able to dominate the ball with Irving on the floor, presumably at the same time.

On the other hand, Harrison Barnes is an interesting player who reminds me a lot of Luol Deng in his overall game. Barnes is probably a better ball handler, but his quiet demeanor and overall inside out game are pretty comparable to the Bulls’ All Star.

Both players are good fits for the Cavs because Kyrie Irving is going to be able to create offense for them, something they both struggled with in college. Barnes can be extremely effective and even dominant at times when he is not the focal point of an offense, and the same could be said for Bradley Beal.

Both play different positions and would play obviously different roles for the Cavs if they were obtained. If Barnes is added to the mix, he’d be called upon to guard guys like LeBron James and Carmelo Anthony, other dominant small forwards in the Eastern Conference. Beal is more of an undersized two guard who is going to play a Ben Gordon or Eric Gordon type of role for Cleveland.

I am not sure the Cavaliers can really get this pick wrong, but I will be very intrigued to see who they decide to pair with the reigning rookie of the year.

2012 NBA Mock Draft: Cavs Select Brad Beal In Latest Tom Ziller Mock

2012 NBA Mock Draft: DraftExpress Has Cleveland Taking Bradley Beal No. 4 Overall

More from SI.com: A behind the scenes look at the NBA Draft lottery.

Now that the 2012 NBA Draft Lottery has taken place, pundits can get to work on mock drafts with teams at their respective slots for the NBA Draft, which will take place on June 28.

The Cavaliers will pick No. 4 this year, dropping a spot after the lottery from the No. 3 spot. Despite the drop, a post-lottery mock draft from DraftExpress still has the Cavaliers going with shooting guard Bradley Beal out of Florida. Beal had a poor statistical freshman season after being highly touted out of high school, but draft experts remain high on his intangibles:

Standing somewhere between 6-4 and 6-5, Beal has decent size for a NBA shooting guard, to go along with a solid frame and average length. While not possessing rim-rocking explosiveness, he's an extremely smooth and fluid athlete with excellent mobility.

The Cavs will also have the No. 24 pick in the first round, a pick they received as part of the Ramon Sessions deal to the Lakers mid-season. DraftExpress projects Arnett Moultrie going to the Cavs with that pick. Moultrie is a 6-foot-11 big man out of Mississippi State who averaged 10.5 rebounds and just under a block per game as a 21-year-old junior.

For more news, analysis, and discussion on the Cavaliers Draft, visit Fear The Sword. For more on the NBA Lottery and the 2012 Draft, check out SB Nation's NBA hub.

NBA Draft Order 2012: Cavs Land No. 4 Pick

One year after landing two picks in the top four at the 2011 NBA Draft Lottery, the Cleveland Cavaliers will pick No. 4 in the upcoming 2012 NBA Draft.

The consensus No. 1 pick is Kentucky's Anthony Davis, but after that Michael Kidd-Gilchrist and Brad Beal are generally considered the next tier of prospects. After that, it's a mix of prospects with Thomas Robinson and Andre Drummond considered top five talents. Below the complete 2012 Draft Order:

1. New Orleans Hornets

2. Charlotte Bobcats

3. Washington Wizards
4. Cleveland Cavaliers
5. Sacramento Kings

6. Portland Trail Blazers (via New Jersey Nets)

7. Golden State Warriors
8. Toronto Raptors 

9. Detroit Pistons
10. New Orleans Hornets (via Minnesota)
11. Portland Trail Blazers
12. Milwaukee Bucks

13. Phoenix Suns
14. Houston Rockets

In addition to the No. 4 pick, the Cavaliers also hold the rights to the No. 24 pick (via the Lakers) and the No. 3 and No. 4 picks of the second round.

For more news, analysis, and discussion on the Cavaliers Draft, visit Fear The Sword. For more on the NBA Lottery and the 2012 Draft, check out SB Nation's NBA hub.

Joe Haden, Josh Cribbs, & Bernie Kosar Join Cavs Bow Tie Brigade At NBA Lottery

Cavs Lottery Representatives Look For Back-To-Back Success

2012 NBA Mock Draft: Cleveland Takes Bradley Beal, Arnett Moultrie In Pre-Lottery Mock

With the draft lottery not yet finished, we still don't know where every team will be picking in the 2012 NBA draft. But before the lotto takes place on Wednesday night, there's still time for a mock draft or two!

The Cleveland Cavaliers could very well get the first overall pick with the third most combos in the draft lottery, but in DraftExpress' latest 2012 NBA mock draft they're picking third along with holding the 24th overall pick that they got from the Lakers in the Ramon Sessions trade.

At third overall, the mock draft gives the Cavaliers Bradley Beal out of Florida, a popular pick for them in mock drafts recently. DraftExpress isn't incredibly high on him in their scouting report, mostly due to a somewhat disappointing freshman year at Florida before coming out to the draft. Still, he has elite talent which is why he's projected so high:

Nevertheless, Beal's draft stock has remained steady all season, as he occasionally shows flashes of being able to make plays that only elite level talents can, but just not consistently yet.

Standing somewhere between 6-4 and 6-5, Beal has decent size for a NBA shooting guard, to go along with a solid frame and average length. While not possessing rim-rocking explosiveness, he's an extremely smooth and fluid athlete with excellent mobility.

At 24th overall, the mock draft has Cleveland taking Mississippi State's Arnett Moultrie. The 6'11'' C/PF gets a lot of good press from DX's scouting report, which has pushed him into first round draft pick territory:

On the offensive end, Moultrie is clearly at his best when he can utilize his excellent tools off the ball, attacking the basket on cuts and offensive rebounds. His length and leaping ability make him an alley-oop machine in the halfcourt, frequently getting open around the rim and throwing down any pass that comes his way. On more contested opportunities, Moultrie is a strong finisher around the rim, usually relying on finesse a little more than he probably should, but showing good touch and ability to use his length to get shots off.

Moultrie is equally dangerous finishing on put-back opportunities, where he shows good pursuit and much more of a mean streak than in other areas of his game. He pulls in an excellent 5.2 offensive rebounds per 40 minutes and is a great finisher in these situations when he goes right back up.

Of course, it will all be a moot point if the Cavaliers can get that No. 1 pick and snag Anthony Davis out of Kentucky. Either way, there are going to be plenty of talented names that the Cavs can add to their roster with their two first rounders.

For more on the Cleveland Cavaliers, head over to Fear The Sword. More news and analysis on the NBA as the draft approaches can be found at SB Nation's NBA hub.

Nick Gilbert Returns With Friends For More NBA Lottery Luck

NBA Draft 2012: Lottery Live Stream, TV Schedule, Odds And More

The mercy of the ping pong balls will decide where the Cleveland Cavaliers and 13 other NBA teams pick in the upcoming 2012 NBA Draft on Wednesday evening. Most likely, the race is to see who will get lucky enough to pick Anthony Davis out of Kentucky with the first overall pick.

Cleveland has the third best chance of winning the first overall selection, with 138 combos and a 13.8% chance to win the lotto. Charlotte, after a dismal season, has the highest chance with 250 combos (25%), while the Houston Rockets have only five (5%).

The 2012 NBA Draft itself will be coming a month from now, when teams select their stars of the future on June 28.

EVENT: 2012 NBA Draft Lottery

LOCATION: Times Square, New York City

TIME: Wednesday, May 30, 8 p.m. ET

TELEVISION: ESPN

LIVE STREAM: ESPN3.com

For more on the Cleveland Cavaliers, head over to Fear The Sword. More on the upcoming NBA Draft Lottery, the Draft itself and the NBA in general can be found over at SB Nation's dedicated NBA hub.

NBA Draft Lottery: Cavs Have 3rd-Best Odds At Landing Top Pick

With the annual NBA Draft Lottery set to take place on Wednesday night, the Cleveland Cavaliers are hoping that they will find a bit of luck and will win the rights to the first overall selection in the 2012 Draft. With the Cavaliers finishing the year tied with the New Orleans Hornets for the third worst record in the entire league (21-45), the two teams had to participate in a coin-flip to determine how the odds in the lottery would be allocated, which ultimately saw the Cavs win the coin-flip as well as a slight edge in the odds.

Here is a complete breakdown of the odds of winning Wednesday night's lottery:

Charlotte Bobcats: 25%

Washington Wizards: 19.9%

Cleveland Cavaliers: 13.8%

New Orleans Hornets: 13.7%

Sacramento Kings: 7.6%

New Jersey Nets/Portland Trailblazers: 7.5%

Golden State Warriors: 3.6%

Detroit Pistons: 1.7%

New Orleans Hornets (via Minnesota): 1.1%

Portland Trailblazers: 0.8%

Milwaukee Bucks: 0.7%

Phoenix Suns: 0.6%

Houston Rockets: 0.5%

Due to the lottery system, the Cavs can draft any where from picks one-through-six depending upon where other selections fall. For a full breakdown of the possibilities, check out this article from Fear the Sword.

For more news, analysis, and discussion on the Cavaliers, visit Fear the Sword. For all your NBA Draft and Playoffs news, follow SB Nation's NBA news hub.

NBA Draft 2012: Michael Kidd-Gilchrist Prepares In Cleveland

With the Cleveland Cavaliers holding the third-best odds in 2012 NBA Draft Lottery, the odds favor Dan Gilbert and company landing in the top three of the draft again. They can pick no worse than No. 6 overall, and their shot at landing in the top 3 has many projecting Kentucky's Michael Kidd-Gilchrist as the newest addition to the roster. Kidd-Gilchrist is preparing for the Draft by working out in Beachwood as he tries to stay close to CAA advisor and Cleveland native Rich Paul while also staying under the radar.

Brendan Bowers of SLAM had an excellent piece profiling MKG's rigorous pre-draft preparations. Bowers asked him about the possibility of staying in Cleveland and ending up with the Cavaliers, where he would join his high school teammate and Rookie of the Year, Kyrie Irving:

"That's my best friend," Kidd-Gilchrist said of last year's No. 1 overall pick. "I talked with him earlier today actually, and he just told me that the NBA is a man's League. He said to just take my time with everything, off the court and on the court stuff, and just take my time in general. But most importantly, he just said to continue to keep working hard."

[...]

"Of course, I'd love to play with Kyrie," Kidd-Gilchrist told SLAMonline. "But at the same time, I'm going into my own professional career and I'd be happy to play with any team that drafts me."

Adding Kidd-Gilchrist would be an ideal scenario for the Cavaliers, and likely the best outcome outside of landing the No. 1 overall pick again and falling into his teammate, Anthony Davis. Kidd-Gilchrist certainly comes off as an impressive prospect in the profile.

For more news, analysis, and discussion on the Cavaliers, visit Fear the Sword. For all your NBA Draft and Playoffs news, follow SB Nation's NBA news hub.

NBA Draft 2012: Jared Sullinger Drawing Mixed Reviews From Scouts

Jared Sullinger is one of the biggest question marks in the 2012 NBA Draft, with scouts issuing mixed reviews of the Ohio State big man. Sullinger does not have ideal athleticism, and played his college ball in the post below the rim, using his body to overpower and out-maneuver college players. But there have been persistent concerns about his ability to transition to the next level, despite the consistent production in the best conference in college hoops.

Sam Amico of Fox Sports Ohio continued his scouting series for the upcoming 2012 Draft, which is just over a month away. Amico has been getting scouts' takes on a variety of NBA prospects, and this week he put Sullinger in the crosshairs. The debate over upside continues, and the Buckeye is one of the great unknowns of this draft. But one G.M. told Amico he thinks Sullinger's skills and intangibles will take him far:

"There are a lot of questions, but I have a feeling we're going to like the answers," said one GM. "We already know he's intelligent and tough, and those two things alone can carry you far in this league, even if you have nothing else to offer. But again, I think Sullinger does."

The worst pick the Cavaliers can get is No. 6 overall, which is about the highest Sullinger is projected to go in the first round. Some say he could tumble all the way to the middle of the first, on the cusp of the lottery. It's unlikely the Cavs would use even the No. 6 pick on the in-state favorite.

For more news, analysis, and discussion on the Cavaliers, visit Fear the Sword. For all your NBA Draft and Playoffs news, follow SB Nation's NBA news hub.

NBA 2012 Mock Draft: Cavs Add Michael Kidd-Gilchrist, Tony Wroten, And Doron Lamb

We're a week away from the 2012 NBA Drafy Lottery, and the Cavaliers will likely have four picks in the top 35, creating an opportunity to add plenty of impressive college talent. The scouting gurus at DraftExpress have released their latest mock draft, ranking players in accordance with their value based on their scouting profiles. It does not yet take into account team needs, but they do list Michael Kidd-Gilchrist as the No. 3 overall pick to the Cleveland Cavaliers. The Kentucky wing is a former high school teammate of Cavs Rookie of the Year Kyrie Irving, and DraftExpress writes that he's an elite athlete who will be can be an instant contributor even as he develops and offensive skill set:

Not someone who can be expected to shoulder an offense considering his somewhat limited skill-set, he is the type of player who needs good teammates around him to fully utilize all the different things he does well. He really understands the nuances of making others better with his ability to set screens, pass, and make hustle plays, which is likely a big reason why he's always been considered such a winner from very early on in his career.

Based on their current slots, DraftExpress also has the Cavaliers adding two of MKG's Wildcat teammates in the second round. They list Doron Lamb and Darius Miller going with the second and third overall picks in Round 2, making it a Kentucky trio in Cleveland. As for the Lakers pick which the Cavs have the rights to at No. 24, DraftExpress predicts Washington super athlete Tony Wroten as the selection.

For more news, analysis, and discussion on the Cavaliers, visit Fear the Sword. For all your NBA Draft and Playoffs news, follow SB Nation's NBA news hub.

2012 NBA Mock Draft: Notes On Harrison Barnes, Selected By Cleveland In Latest SB Nation Mock

Until May 30 when we find out which team will be going where in the NBA lottery, it's up to making educated guesses on where the balls, and players, will land. As such, it's time for hilarious guessing as to where the teams involved will be picking in the top 14. Tom Ziller's latest 2012 NBA mock draft has an order based on the 'Basketball Gods' which has the Cleveland Cavaliers picking UNC's Harrison Barnes at sixth overall.

Of course, he says the Basketball Gods are in favor of Cleveland continuing to build a powerhouse young team led by Kyrie Irving and Tristan Thompson so they can beat LeBron at some point:

Like everyone else, The Basketball Gods became angry with LeBron James in 2010. Not because of The Decision, but because of LeBron's decision to hold his infamous spectacle at a Boys & Girls Club with children present. It was a move clearly designed to shield King James from the multiple strikes of lightning that The Gods wished to rain upon him, and it upset them so deeply that instead of seeking retribution later they opted to turn Cleveland into a powerhouse that will crush him someday.

Someday.

Well done, Basketball Gods.

FOX Sports Ohio has done scouting reports on many of the prospects that the Cavaliers have had in mind, or are at least assumed to be having in mind. Their latest is on, who else, Barnes, and it looks like he is already an ideal NBA player despite having a bit of a bad rap as an underachiever:

"People who have watched his full body of work aren't complaining too much," said an Eastern Conference GM. "The kid was built for the NBA. There's better spacing (in the pros than in college), and he won't come in as everyone's focus. He should be open a lot. When he is, good things happen."

There should be plenty of looks for Barnes, especially in his rookie season if teams continue to focus their attention at containing Irving from the Cavs.

For more news, analysis, and discussion on the Cavaliers, visit Fear the Sword. For all your NBA Draft and Playoffs news, follow SB Nation's NBA news hub.

NBA 2012 Mock Draft: DraftExpress Has Cavs Taking Kentucky's Michael Kidd-Gilchrist

Mock drafts in the NBA not only guess the order in which players will be selected -- à la the NFL -- but also the order in which teams will select.

As such, this isn't science.

But even if things are fluid, and will remain fluid until the NBA Draft Lottery is finalized on May 30, mock drafts are finding their way to the Web. And it can't hurt to look, right?

The most recent mock draft from DraftExrpess has the Cleveland Cavaliers taking 6-7 forward Michael Kidd-Gilchrist from Kentucky.

Kidd-Gilchrist, who started all but one game as a freshman last season, averaged 11.9 points and 7.4 rebounds for the national champion Wildcats. He shot 49.9 percent from the floor, and while he definitely "has a motor," the 18-year-old could certainly use some polish. He hit just 25.5 of his three-pointers and averaged more turnovers (2.2) than assists (1.9).

The New Jersey native had 11 points and six rebounds against Kansas in the national title game.

For more on the Cleveland Cavaliers, go to Fear The Sword. You can also check out professional basketball news from around the league over at SB Nation's NBA page, or head over to SB Nation's YouTube channel:

2012 NBA Mock Draft: Cavs Take Harrison Barnes With No. 6 Pick In Worst Case Scenarios

The NBA Draft Lottery is two weeks away, and the Cavaliers have the third-best odds of landing the top pick. Dan Gilbert's club can do no worse than the No. 6 pick overall, and SB Nation NBA expert Tom Ziller put out a mock draft that highlights some of the cruelest outcomes for each team in the lottery, based on the basketball gods wishes. Ziller has the Cavaliers picking No. 6, where they land North Carolina wing Harrison Barnes.

More: SB Nation's 2012 NBA Mock Draft

At one point, it was predicted Barnes would land with Cleveland with a top 3 pick in 2011. He returned to Carolina for his sophomore season and his stock dropped after a quiet, and at times wholly unimpressive, 2012 NCAA Tournament. Ahead of Barnes in Ziller's mock are Anthony Davis, Thomas Robinson, Michael Kidd-Gilchrist, Bradley Beal, and Andre Drummond. Coming on the heels of Kyrie Irving's Rookie of the Year campaign, any of those six players will be a nice addition, but Barnes would probably be the least attractive, both from needs-based and scouting-based standpoints.

For more news, analysis, and discussion on the Cavaliers, visit Fear the Sword. For all your NBA Draft and Playoffs news, follow SB Nation's NBA news hub.

Cavs Looking To Superstitiously Replicate 2011 Draft Lottery Results

2012 NBA Mock Draft: Could Cavs Pass On Brad Beal To Go Big With Andre Drummond?

The NBA Draft is a little over a month away, and it will be a huge night for the future of the Cleveland Cavaliers. The Cavs have a very good chance to land a top three pick and add a cornerstone piece to match up with Kyrie Irving. If they do fall in the top three, many expect the Cavaliers to land either Anthony Davis, Michael Kidd-Gilchrist, or Bradley Beal. But NBA Draft Room thinks Chris Grant and company could look insider, and take who they call a "poor man's Dwight Howard."

More: SB Nation Mock Draft Lands Brad Beal In Cleveland

The 6'10 center prospect from UConn has an NBA build but has no developed and NBA offensive skill set yet. Drummond has plenty of potential, but based on his 2011-12 season, Beal is considered the safer pick. Here's what NBA Draft Room has to say about Drummond at No. 3:

Physical specimen who is built like Dwight Howard. Very good quickness and explosiveness for a big man - can attack the rim with great power. Should be a very good rebounder and interior defender at the pro level and is developing nice offensive post moves. A rare, elite center prospect.

For more news, analysis, and discussion on the Cavaliers, visit Fear the Sword. For all your NBA Draft and Playoffs news, follow SB Nation's NBA news hub.

NBA 2012 Mock Draft: SB Nation Mock Gives Bradley Beal To Cavaliers

SB Nation's latest 2012 NBA Mock Draft has the Cavaliers selecting Florida's Bradley Beal to add to Cleveland's backcourt attack.

2012 NBA Mock Draft: Cleveland Cavaliers Select Bradley Beal With No. 3 Pick

In Chad Ford's 2012 NBA Mock Draft, the Cleveland Cavaliers select Bradley Beal with the third overall pick. The order of the mock draft is based on the highest lottery odds, as the order of the draft has not been decided yet. Via Ford:

Analysis: If the Cavs can stay in the top 3, it's a huge outcome for them. The Cavs scored big time when they landed Kyrie Irving last year. They would complete their backcourt overhaul if they could put Beal next to him. That would give them two high-octane scorers who can both handle the ball, get to the rim and shoot it -- an ideal scenario for the Cavs.

Bradley Beal was a freshman sensation for Billy Donovan's Gators, leading the the team with 6.7 rebounds, while ranking second with 6.7 rebounds, 2.2 assists and 1.4 steals per game.

More: SB Nation's complete list of lottery odds.

For more news, analysis, and discussion on the Cavaliers and their offseason, visit Fear The Sword. For all your NBA Draft news and notes, as well as comprehensive playoff previews, visit SB Nation's NBA hub.

NBA Draft Lottery 2012: Cavaliers Win Coin Toss, Tiebreaker With Hornets

The Cleveland Cavaliers won on Friday afternoon -- not a game, but two separate coin flips to determine draft order. The Cavaliers and Hornets finished with the same record, tied for third worst in the league. While both clubs have a better than 42 percent chance of landing in the top three, if somehow neither make it that far, the Cavs will pick ahead of the Hornets. The worst they can pick is now No. 6 overall in the 1st round. Dan Gilbert sent his good luck charm again, his son Nick, to New York to represent the organization at the coin flip. Via @CavsDan:

Sent @cavsnick to NYC for coin flip. Cavs won the flip! What's not to like?!!

— Dan Gilbert (@cavsdan) April 27, 2012

The Cavs also won the coin flip for the Lakers pick they control in the first round, which means they now also have the rights to the No. 24 pick as well. A good afternoon for Cavs fans after an ugly end to the season. Here's hoping it's an indicator of future things to come this offseason.

More: SB Nation's complete list of lottery odds.

For more news, analysis, and discussion on the Cavaliers and their offseason, visit Fear The Sword. For all your NBA Draft news and notes, as well as comprehensive playoff previews, visit SB Nation's NBA hub.

NBA Lottery Odds: Cavaliers Have 3rd-Best Shot At Landing No. 1 Pick

With the season now over, the Cavaliers offseason begins with a 13.8 percent chance of landing the No. 1 overall pick in the 2012 NBA Draft.

NBA Draft 2012: Cleveland Cavaliers Firmly Entrenched In Lottery

The Cleveland Cavaliers are likely to get a lottery pick in the 2012 NBA Draft once the season has ended unless they can turn their season around.

2012 NBA Draft: Jared Sullinger Represents Ohio State In Top Prospect List

For more on the Ohio State Buckeyes, check out Along The Olentangy.