Ranking The 2012 NBA Draft Class By Tiers

Presenting an overview of the 2012 NBA Draft Class, categorized into tiers to elucidate the multifaceted trajectories of its biggest players. From elite performers commanding the league's attention to stalwart contributors in the subsequent tiers, this breakdown affords insight into the diverse career paths of the individuals chosen in the 2012 NBA Draft. 

Tier 1

Anthony Davis, Damian Lillard

Selected as the first overall pick in the 2012 NBA Draft by the New Orleans Hornets (now Pelicans), Anthony Davis quickly established himself as one of the league's premier talents. The versatile power forward/center played his first seven seasons in New Orleans before joining the Los Angeles Lakers in 2019. Known for his exceptional defensive skills, Davis has earned multiple NBA All-Defensive Team selections. He was a pivotal part of the Lakers' 2020 championship run, showcasing his scoring ability and rebounding prowess. With multiple All-Star selections and All-NBA Team nods to his name, Anthony Davis has solidified his status as a cornerstone player in the league.

Selected sixth overall by the Portland Trail Blazers, Damian Lillard has become synonymous with clutch performances and long-range shooting. Lillard, a seven-time NBA All-Star, has been the face of the Trail Blazers and has consistently led them deep into the playoffs until last season. As the centerpiece of the Milwaukee Bucks since his trade this offseason, Lillard is poised to keep going strong in the playoffs on the Eastern side of the NBA.

Tier 2

Draymond Green, Bradley Beal, Khris Middleton

As the 35th overall pick by the Golden State Warriors, Draymond Green defied draft expectations to become an integral part of the Warriors' dynasty. Known for his tenacious defense, exceptional basketball IQ, and versatility, Green played a crucial role in Golden State's four championship victories. A three-time NBA All-Star and former Defensive Player of the Year, Green's impact on the court goes beyond traditional statistics, as he's often credited for his leadership and ability to impact games in various ways. While not a prolific scorer, Green's unique skill set and unselfish play have made him a linchpin for the Warriors.

Bradley Beal has emerged as one of the league's premier scorers as the third overall selection in Washington. A dynamic shooting guard, Beal's offensive prowess and ability to create scoring opportunities have earned him multiple NBA All-Star selections. Beal's individual accomplishments, including two All-NBA Team selections, while averaging 22.1 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 3.8 assists per game, have solidified his standing as one of the league's elite shooting guards as he is now a key member of the Phoenix Suns.

Drafted 39th overall by the Detroit Pistons and later traded to the Milwaukee Bucks, Khris Middleton has played a pivotal role in the Bucks' rise to prominence. A key contributor alongside Giannis Antetokounmpo, Middleton played a crucial role in Milwaukee's 2021 NBA Championship run. Known for his scoring versatility, clutch performances, and reliable three-point shooting, Middleton has earned multiple NBA All-Star selections. Over his career, Middleton has averaged 16.9 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 3.9 assists per game. As a critical part of the Bucks' championship team, he showcased his ability to perform under pressure and deliver in key moments.

Tier 3

Andre Drummond, Will Barton, Jae Crowder, Harrison Barnes, Terrence Ross

A force in the paint, Andre Drummond, chosen ninth overall by the Detroit Pistons, quickly asserted himself as one of the league's premier rebounders. Dominating the boards and showcasing shot-blocking prowess, Drummond earned multiple NBA All-Star selections. Despite moving between teams, including the Cleveland Cavaliers, Los Angeles Lakers, and now on the Chicago Bulls, Drummond's physical presence and consistent double-double averages of approximately 12.9 points, 12.5 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks per game make him a formidable interior presence.

Will Barton, drafted 40th overall by the Portland Trail Blazers, has proven to be a versatile wing player throughout his career. Known for his scoring prowess, Barton, a key contributor for the Denver Nuggets in the past, averages 11.2 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 2.7 assists per game for his career. His well-rounded game and ability to impact both ends of the floor have made him an invaluable asset, especially evident in the success of the Nuggets prior to the championship last season, showcasing Barton's ability to contribute in various facets of the game.

A tenacious defender and reliable three-point shooter, Jae Crowder, selected 34th overall by the Cleveland Cavaliers, has established himself as a valuable 3-and-D player in the league. Contributing to the success of teams like the Boston Celtics and Miami Heat, Crowder's defensive intensity and perimeter shooting have been crucial. Averaging 9.5 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 1.62 assists per game, Crowder's versatility has played a key role in deep playoff runs and critical moments as he is part of the Milwaukee Bucks at the time.

Drafted seventh overall by the Golden State Warriors, Harrison Barnes has had a versatile career as a forward in the NBA. A key member of the Warriors' early championship-winning teams, Barnes showcased scoring ability and defensive versatility. Throughout his career, averaging 14.1 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 1.8 assists per game, Barnes has consistently contributed on both ends of the floor, adapting to various roles with the Dallas Mavericks and Sacramento Kings.

Terrence Ross, chosen eighth overall by the Toronto Raptors, has made a name for himself as a high-flying and scoring wing player. Known for athleticism and three-point shooting, Ross has been a valuable contributor for the Raptors and Orlando Magic. Averaging around 11.0 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 1.3 assists per game, Ross's scoring off the bench and ability to stretch the floor have endeared him to fans throughout his career. His highlight-reel dunks and scoring outbursts made him a dynamic presence on the court as he announced his retirement recently.

Tier 4

Dion Waiters, Austin Rivers, Jeremy Lamb, Evan Fournier, Miles Plumlee, Mike Scott

Known for his scoring ability and confidence on the court, Dion Waiters, selected fourth overall by the Cleveland Cavaliers, has experienced a journeyman career in the NBA. Despite facing challenges, Waiters has showcased flashes of offensive brilliance throughout his career. Averaging around 13.1 points, 2.6 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game, Waiters' scoring versatility has been evident during stints with various teams, including the Miami Heat and the Los Angeles Lakers.

Drafted 10th overall by the New Orleans Hornets, Austin Rivers has carved out a niche as a skilled guard with the ability to score and facilitate. Known for his scoring outbursts, Rivers has been a valuable asset off the bench for multiple teams, including the Houston Rockets and Denver Nuggets. Averaging around 9.1 points, 2.3 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game, Rivers' versatility and scoring spark have contributed to his longevity in the league.

Jeremy Lamb, selected 12th overall by the Houston Rockets (traded to the Oklahoma City Thunder), has been a steady presence in the NBA as a reliable scoring wing. Known for his smooth offensive game, Lamb has contributed to teams such as the Charlotte Hornets and Indiana Pacers. Averaging around 10.2 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 1.5 assists per game, Lamb's scoring and ability to impact games off the bench make him a valuable rotation player.

Drafted 20th overall by the Denver Nuggets, Evan Fournier has established himself as a skilled perimeter player with a scoring touch. A key contributor for teams like the New York Knicks, Orlando Magic, and Boston Celtics, Fournier has showcased his ability to score both inside and beyond the arc. Averaging around 14.5 points, 3.1 rebounds, and 2.6 assists per game, Fournier's offensive versatility and shooting prowess have made him a valuable asset for his teams.

Miles Plumlee selected 26th overall by the Indiana Pacers, has provided a solid presence in the frontcourt throughout his NBA career. Known for his rebounding and shot-blocking ability, Plumlee has contributed to teams such as the Atlanta Hawks, Charlotte Hornets, and Los Angeles Clippers. Averaging around 4.9 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks per game, Plumlee's contributions in the paint and defensive presence have been key elements of his role in the league.

Mike Scott, chosen 43rd overall by the Atlanta Hawks, has been a reliable stretch forward with the ability to knock down three-pointers. A contributor for teams like the Philadelphia 76ers and Washington Wizards, Scott's shooting has been a valuable asset off the bench. Averaging around 6.7 points and 3.2 rebounds per game, Scott's floor-spacing and scoring from beyond the arc have made him a valuable role player in various team rotations.

Tier 5

Michael Kidd-Gilchrist, Thomas Robinson, Meyers Leonard, Terrence Jones, Maurice Harkless, John Henson, Tomas Satoransky

Drafted second overall by the Charlotte Bobcats, Michael Kidd-Gilchrist entered the league with a reputation for his defensive prowess and athleticism. Despite facing offensive challenges, Kidd-Gilchrist's commitment to defense has been a consistent feature of his career. Spending time with the Charlotte Hornets and Dallas Mavericks, he showcased versatility on the wing. Averaging approximately 8.4 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 1.2 assists per game, Kidd-Gilchrist's impact extends beyond the box score with his defensive contributions.

Selected fifth overall by the Sacramento Kings, Thomas Robinson's NBA journey took him through multiple teams. Known for his energy and rebounding, Robinson contributed to teams like the Portland Trail Blazers and Houston Rockets. Averaging around 4.9 points and 4.8 rebounds per game, Robinson's tenacity in the paint and hustle have been key aspects of his role in the league.

Drafted 11th overall by the Portland Trail Blazers, Meyers Leonard has carved out a role as a stretch big man with the ability to knock down three-pointers. Known for his shooting and rebounding, Leonard has contributed to teams such as the Miami Heat and Portland Trail Blazers. Averaging approximately 5.6 points and 3.9 rebounds per game, Leonard's floor-spacing and shooting touch from beyond the arc have been valuable assets for his teams.

Terrence Jones, selected 18th overall by the Houston Rockets, showcased versatility as a forward with scoring and defensive abilities. A contributor for the Rockets and New Orleans Pelicans, Jones had notable performances during his tenure in the league. Averaging around 10.4 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 1 assist per game, Jones' athleticism and two-way contributions were highlights of his time in the NBA.

Maurice Harkless, chosen 15th overall by the Philadelphia 76ers (traded to the Orlando Magic), has been a defensive-minded forward throughout his NBA career. Known for his versatility and ability to guard multiple positions, Harkless has contributed to teams such as the Portland Trail Blazers and Los Angeles Clippers. Averaging approximately 7.3 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 1.1 steals per game, Harkless' defensive instincts and team-first mentality have made him a valuable role player.

Selected 14th overall by the Milwaukee Bucks, John Henson has been a reliable presence in the frontcourt with shot-blocking abilities. Known for his rim protection, Henson contributed to teams like the Cleveland Cavaliers and Detroit Pistons. Averaging around 7.2 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks per game, Henson's defensive impact in the paint has been a consistent feature of his NBA journey.

Drafted 32nd overall by the Washington Wizards, Tomas Satoransky has been a steady presence as a versatile guard. Known for his playmaking and basketball IQ, Satoransky contributed to the Wizards and Chicago Bulls. Averaging around 7.3 points, 3.7 assists, and 3.1 rebounds per game, Satoransky's ability to facilitate and contribute in various facets of the game has made him a valuable asset in the backcourt.

Tier 6

Jared Sullinger, Tony Wroten, Festus Ezeli, Kendall Marshall, Quincy Acy, Kostas Papanikolaou, Robert Sacre

A product of Ohio State, Jared Sullinger entered the NBA as the 21st overall pick by the Boston Celtics. Despite showing promise as a skilled big man with scoring and rebounding ability, Sullinger's career faced challenges due to injuries. Spending time with the Celtics and Toronto Raptors, he averaged around 10.8 points and 7.5 rebounds per game. Sullinger's skill set and potential were evident, but unfortunate injuries hindered the trajectory of his professional career.

Tony Wroten, selected 25th overall by the Memphis Grizzlies, showcased scoring prowess as a guard. Known for his explosive drives to the basket, Wroten contributed to teams like the Philadelphia 76ers and New York Knicks. Averaging approximately 11 points, 3 rebounds, and 3 assists per game, Wroten's offensive flair and ability to create scoring opportunities were highlights of his time in the league.

Drafted 30th overall by the Golden State Warriors, Festus Ezeli was part of the Warriors' championship-winning roster. Known for his shot-blocking and rim-protecting abilities, Ezeli contributed to the Warriors' success before injuries impacted his career. Averaging around 4.2 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks per game, Ezeli's defensive presence in the paint was a valuable asset during his time in the league.

Kendall Marshall, chosen 13th overall by the Phoenix Suns, was recognized for his playmaking skills as a point guard. A contributor for teams like the Los Angeles Lakers and Milwaukee Bucks, Marshall averaged around 5.0 points, 4.9 assists, and 2.9 rebounds per game. While injuries affected his consistency, Marshall's ability to facilitate and orchestrate the offense showcased his basketball IQ.

Quincy Acy, selected 37th overall by the Toronto Raptors, established himself as a gritty and physical forward during his NBA career. Known for his energy and hustle, Acy contributed to teams like the Brooklyn Nets and Sacramento Kings. Averaging approximately 4.9 points and 3.5 rebounds per game, Acy's toughness and willingness to do the dirty work made him a valuable role player.

Drafted 48th overall by the New York Knicks (traded to the Houston Rockets), Kostas Papanikolaou brought his European experience to the NBA. A versatile forward, Papanikolaou contributed to the Rockets and Denver Nuggets. Averaging around 4.2 points and 2.7 rebounds per game, his basketball IQ and understanding of the game were evident during his time in the league.

Robert Sacre, chosen 60th overall by the Los Angeles Lakers, carved out a role as a dependable backup center. Known for his energy and enthusiasm, Sacre contributed to the Lakers throughout his career. Averaging around 4.2 points and 3.1 rebounds per game, Sacre's positive attitude and team-first mentality endeared him to fans and teammates alike during his time in the league.