The NBA Draft is a high-stakes affair, and every general manager's decision carries weight. Some picks can make or break a franchise's future, and the consequences of a bad pick can be far-reaching. Here's a deep dive into some of the biggest draft mistakes in NBA history, with a focus on early first-round picks and their impact on teams' legacies.
The Hornets' Trade for Kobe Bryant: The Hornets' decision to trade their 13th pick for Vlade Divac in 1996, instead of using it to draft Kobe Bryant, is a glaring error. Bryant, who was passed over for Divac, went on to become a five-time NBA champion and an all-time great. The Hornets' move set them back, and they missed out on a potential dynasty.
Pacers' Trade for George Hill: In 2011, the Pacers traded their 15th pick for George Hill, a move that seemed reasonable at the time. However, they overlooked the potential of Kawhi Leonard, who became a two-time Finals MVP. Leonard's defensive prowess and efficient offense make him a cornerstone player, and the Pacers' decision to trade him away is a major blunder.
Bucks' Trade for Robert Traylor: The Bucks' trade for Robert Traylor in 1998, instead of drafting Dirk Nowitzki, was a significant mistake. Nowitzki, a 14-time All-Star, led the Mavericks to a championship in 2011, while Traylor averaged just 4.8 points per game in his seven-year career. The Bucks could have taken Paul Pierce, who went 10th in the same draft.
Bobcats' Selection of Michael Kidd-Gilchrist: The Bobcats' 2012 pick of Michael Kidd-Gilchrist, a dominant slasher, was a risky move. His perimeter shooting never developed, and he averaged just 8.4 points per game. The Bobcats could have taken Bradley Beal, a three-time All-Star, who developed into a scoring machine.
Clippers' Selection of Michael Olowokandi: The Clippers' 1998 first pick, Michael Olowokandi, is often considered a bust. He shot just 43.5% for his career, and the Clippers could have taken any of the next four players. Elgin Baylor's decision to pass on Olowokandi was a significant blunder.
Cavaliers' Selection of Anthony Bennett: The Cavaliers' 2013 pick, Anthony Bennett, was a shocking and objectively worse player. He played just four seasons, averaging 4.4 points per game. Chris Grant, the GM, should have listened to his instincts and avoided this pick.
76ers' Trade for Markelle Fultz: The 76ers' decision to trade up for Markelle Fultz in 2017, passing on Jayson Tatum, was a major gaffe. Tatum, an All-Star, won a title with the Celtics, while Fultz struggled with injuries and was traded to Orlando. The 76ers' move raises questions about their decision-making.
Warriors' Trade for Joe Smith: In 1995, the Warriors' GM, Dave Twardzik, took Joe Smith, passing on four future Hall of Famers. Kevin Garnett, Jerry Stackhouse, Rasheed Wallace, and Antonio McDyess were all available, and Garnett's potential as a high-school player should have been recognized. Twardzik's decision was a significant blunder.
Wizards' Selection of Kwame Brown: The Wizards' 2001 pick, Kwame Brown, was a rotation big who never lived up to his potential. The team could have taken Pau Gasol, a six-time All-Star, or Tyson Chandler, a one-time All-Star. Michael Jordan's decision to pass on Gasol was a significant mistake.
Warriors' Selection of James Wiseman: The Warriors' 2020 pick, James Wiseman, was touted as a star-level talent. However, injuries and poor performance led to his trade. The team could have taken LaMelo Ball or Tyrese Haliburton, and Curry's potential titles could have been significantly higher.
Mavericks' Trade for Sam Perkins: The Mavericks' 1984 trade for Sam Perkins, instead of drafting Charles Barkley, was a major blunder. Barkley, a Hall of Famer, could have formed a dynamic duo with Mark Aguirre. Rick Sund's attempt to trade Aguirre for Michael Jordan was a missed opportunity.
Warriors' Gift of Hall of Fame Frontcourt: In 1980, the Warriors' trade for Joe Barry Carroll, instead of keeping Robert Parish, was a significant mistake. The Celtics took advantage, drafting Kevin McHale, a Hall of Famer. Al Attles' decision to trade Parish was a blunder.
Grizzlies' Selection of Hasheem Thabeet: The Grizzlies' 2009 pick, Hasheem Thabeet, was a defensive center with no offensive skills. The team could have taken James Harden, an 11-time All-Star. Chris Wallace's decision to pass on Harden was a significant mistake.
Blazers' Pass on Kevin Durant: The Blazers' 2007 pick, Greg Oden, was a bust due to injuries. Kevin Durant, who signed with the Warriors, is an MVP and one of the greatest scorers. The Blazers' decision to pass on Durant set them back significantly.
Wolves' Selection of Two PGs: The Timberwolves' 2009 picks, Ricky Rubio and Jonny Flynn, were both point guards. Stephen Curry, a four-time champion, was available. David Kahn's decision to pass on Curry was a major blunder.
Royals' Pass on Bill Russell: The Royals' 1956 pick, Si Green, was a significant mistake. Bill Russell, a five-time MVP, led the Celtics to 11 championships. Lee Harrison's decision to pass on Russell was a blunder.
Blazers' Pass on Michael Jordan: The Blazers' 1984 pick, Clyde Drexler, was a productive player, but the team missed out on Michael Jordan, a six-time champion. Stu Inman's decision to pass on Jordan was a significant mistake, and the Blazers haven't won a championship since 1977.
