Washington Wizards To Pick Third In 2012 NBA Draft

For a moment, it looked like lightning would strike twice for the Washington Wizards after their good fortune in 2010. The first 11 picks were unveiled, and the Wizards were not among them, setting up yet another exciting drawing for the top spot, this time with the Charlotte Bobcats and New Orleans Hornets. In the end, though, it wasn't meant to be, as the Wizards ended up with the third pick, behind the Bobcats and Hornets, who won the Anthony Davis sweepstakes.

The Wizards are now in a really interesting spot. They have the choice of a number of second-tier prospects that many of us seem to like, but they have to figure out which one fits best, not to mention which one is available. Is Michael Kidd-Gilchrist's will to win worth the third pick despite his poor shooting? Is Bradley Beal the guy even though he was underwhelming at times at Florida? Should more consideration be given to Thomas Robinson, who produces and plays his ass off, but also plays the same position as Trevor Booker and Jan Vesely? What about a wild card like Harrison Barnes or Andre Drummond? Is a trade down or even a trade out worth looking at?

No matter what, this puts Ernie Grunfeld in an interesting spot. It's time for him to make the best choice with the many options at his disposal.