Looking Back at the 2012 NBA Redraft: Who Should Have Been Picked Where?

Looking back at the 2012 NBA Draft feels like revisiting a time capsule—one filled with what-ifs, overlooked gems, and franchise-altering decisions. As someone who’s spent years analyzing basketball drafts and player development, I’ve always been fascinated by how a single selection can ripple across the league for years. And honestly, the 2012 class is one of those drafts that keeps you up at night wondering how things might have played out differently if teams had known then what we know now.

When the New Orleans Hornets—now the Pelicans—selected Anthony Davis first overall, nobody batted an eye. Davis was the consensus top prospect, a generational talent with defensive instincts and offensive versatility that screamed superstar. And he’s lived up to that billing, without a doubt. But what’s intriguing is how the rest of the first round unfolded. For instance, Damian Lillard went sixth to Portland, and Bradley Beal landed with the Wizards at pick three. Both have had phenomenal careers, but if we redid that draft today, I’d argue the order would look dramatically different. Lillard, in my view, has a strong case for the number two spot. His clutch performances, leadership, and sustained excellence make him one of the most impactful players from that class. Beal, while incredible, might slide down just a bit due to injury concerns over the years.

Then there’s Draymond Green, who wasn’t taken until the 35th pick by the Warriors. If teams could do it over, I’m convinced he’d be a top-five selection—maybe even top three. His defensive IQ and playmaking revolutionized the power forward position and fueled Golden State’s dynasty. I remember watching him at Michigan State and thinking he’d be a solid role player, but never did I imagine he’d become the heart of a championship team. That’s the beauty of hindsight; it humbles even the most seasoned analysts.

But let’s not forget the international flavor of this draft, which brings me to a broader point about global basketball. The 2012 class included players like Jonas Valančiūnas and Donatas Motiejūnas, who added depth to the pool. Fast forward to today, and we see how the global game has evolved—take the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup, for example. That tournament was a wake-up call, showing that teams like Canada can genuinely challenge Team USA and other traditional powerhouses. It’s a reminder that talent is everywhere, and sometimes the most overlooked picks come from outside the U.S. In fact, if we’re redrafting 2012, I’d push for more attention to international prospects who’ve proven their mettle in leagues worldwide.

Speaking of underrated picks, Khris Middleton went 39th to the Pistons but didn’t find his stride until he joined the Bucks. Now, he’s a multiple-time All-Star and a key piece of Milwaukee’s 2021 championship run. In a redraft, I’d slot him firmly in the late lottery—somewhere between picks 10 and 14. His mid-range game and defensive versatility are exactly what modern teams crave. On the flip side, some high picks like Thomas Robinson (fifth overall) and Meyers Leonard (11th) didn’t pan out as hoped. Robinson, for instance, played for six teams in five seasons, averaging just 4.9 points per game. It’s a stark reminder that draft position isn’t everything; fit, development, and sheer luck play huge roles.

Personally, I’ve always had a soft spot for Harrison Barnes, who went seventh to the Warriors. He’s been a reliable starter for over a decade, contributing to a championship early in his career and evolving into a veteran leader. In a redraft, I might move him up a spot or two, but what stands out is his consistency—something you can’t always quantify with stats. Meanwhile, players like Jae Crowder, drafted 34th, have carved out lengthy careers by adapting to different roles. Crowder’s toughness and three-point shooting make him a valuable asset even today, and in a redraft, he’d easily crack the first round.

As I reflect on all this, it’s clear that the 2012 NBA Redraft isn’t just an exercise in revisionist history—it’s a lesson in scouting, patience, and the unpredictable nature of sports. The rise of global competitions like the FIBA World Cup only amplifies this, showing that the next superstar could come from anywhere. In the end, if I were a GM with a time machine, I’d push for a top five of Anthony Davis, Damian Lillard, Draymond Green, Bradley Beal, and maybe even Khris Middleton. But that’s the fun of it; we’ll never know for sure, and that’s what keeps us talking, analyzing, and dreaming about what could have been.