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2011 NBA Mock Draft: Kawhai Leonard Could Be A Target For The Wizards

The NBA Lottery order is set, which means we can actually start talking about Mock Drafts without having to guess where the teams will be picking, let alone whom they will be picking. Chad Ford just came out with his first post-lottery 2011 NBA Mock Draft at ESPN, and he has the Wizards adding some help along the perimeter. He has them taking Kawhai Leonard out of San Diego State, here is his rationale.

Leonard can guard multiple positions, would fill a hole at the 3, plays with a motor and toughness the Wizards often lack, and has enormous upside if he continues to improve his jump shot (he was shooting the lights out in Vegas workouts). The comps to Gerald Wallace don't seem out of order, and if his jumper truly improves, he has a chance to be really special. Pairing him with John Wall could be the start of something in Washington.

Leonard would be a good fit for the Wizards, who need some toughness and defense along the perimeter. He is also just 19 years old, so he has the potential to grow into a really nice compliment to John Wall. He plays the same position as Rashard Lewis, the highest paid player on the roster, but he won't be around for very long, and the Wizards have few other options there.