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.