Michael Kidd-Gilchrist
No single number 2 pick had as stark of a contrast in career arc to the previously selected player as in 2012. The Bobcats were in desperate need of a game-changing player. They had just won SEVEN games the previous season. If ANYONE deserved to get a legitimate rookie sensation, it was the team that was historically bad. Instead, the team in New Orleans got the honor of selecting Anthony Davis. To twist the knife, the team’s mascot at the time was the Hornet. Ooof.
Since entering into the league, Davis was a member of the All-rookie team, has made four different NBA All-defensive teams, and has racked up eight All-Star selections. He also won a title with LeBron James in 2020. No biggie.