Second-Round Draft Picks Ready to Surprise in the NBA

K.J. McDaniels, G/F Philadelphia 76ers (No. 32)

As said by Jalen Rose and Bill Simmons during the draft, this year's draft had first round talent in the second round and last year's had second round talent in the first round. K.J. could have been a top 20 pick last year, but this year, he came as the second pick of the second round. McDaniels, like all second round picks, isn't guaranteed a contract. His athleticism and defensive ability, along with his developing shooting touch, are going to make McDaniels a very strong role player in the NBA for years. The former Clemson star has a strong opportunity to succeed on a Philly team that has a weak roster.

Cleanthony Early, G/F New York Knicks (No. 34)

Early fits this draft's profile as an athlete. He slipped due to concerns about shooting and size, but he still will be able to make an impact off the bench for the Knicks. The Knicks struggled on the defensive end, and Early can bother opponents on and off the ball. He also will provide the fans in the Garden with big dunks and frequent shows of his athleticism.

Nick Johnson, G Houston Rockets (No. 43)

Johnson looked like one of the best players in both the Orlando and Las Vegas Summer Leagues. The Arizona product is, pound-for-pound, one of the best athletes in the NBA at the moment, and he hasn't even played a game yet. The All-American showed off his incredible shooting range as well as his hops as he made other teams look like fools trying to guard him. Now with Jeremy Lin gone, Johnson will have a better shot to break the Houston rotation and see minutes in a Rockets uniform.

Jordan Clarkson, G Los Angeles Lakers (No. 46)

Jordan Clarkson is the real deal. He slipped in the draft because of an erratic shooting percentage in college, but he proved he can play with the big boys in the Summer League. The 6'5" point guard showed he was comfortable with and without the ball in Las Vegas, due to Kendall Marshall taking the point guard duties. The former Missouri guard shot well from the perimeter while also doing what he does best by driving to the lane. Clarkson will play both guard positions for the Lakers, and has the potential to start.

Jordan McRae, G Philadelphia 76ers (No. 58)

Jordan McRae, the four-year Tennessee star who only showed up for the last one and a half years of his career, happens to make this list because of his exceptional shooting touch. He displayed it in the Vegas Summer League and in college, but his percentage wasn't great. Like K.J. McDaniels, he has a great shot to produce in Philly, where he could very well start at shooting guard late in the season. McRae's athleticism is elite, and he fits the profile of a productive NBA guard. If he can put on weight and be more consistent, he could be a matchup nightmare for years to come.