clock menu more-arrow no yes mobile

Filed under:

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.

Photographs by spatulated, Triple Tri, and chrischappelear used in background montage under Creative Commons. Thank you.