5 second round draft picks who proved their skills

With the NBA draft approaching, many have drawn their attention to the early prospects that will take the top ten spots in the first round, changing the course of the game and league with their talents in the many years to come. Andrew Wiggins, Jabari Parker, Marcus Smart, and Julius Randle are only some of the more noticeable names that make the headlines as of late. However, history has proved that there are plenty of current players that have proven to be worth much more than what many may have thought.

In fact, there are athletes in the league who have become intricate parts of their respective teams and have made names for themselves, stretching their own charisma and exuberance on the court to the point where people have completely forgotten how they have even made their way into stardom

Here are five second round draft picks that have done more than just open the eyes of analysts, fans, and coaches alike. They have proven that anything can happen, that the number in which their name is called does not matter but rather what is done once they are given the opportunity to play ball.

(The following list of players does not account for retired players as this list would simply go on and on and on if it had. In addition, there are plenty of current players that are amazingly athletic and do much for their respective teams, I just feel that these players have simply established a sort of fan base and reputation for dominating the game now to the point that many would be delightfully surprised to find what number by which they were actually drafted) 

5. Rashard Lewis (No.32-1998)

Photo Courtesy of Otto Greule Jr.

Although Rashard Lewis has already been traded numerous times in his career, it cannot be doubted that he has made every squad he has played for better. Lewis is an exceptional defender but his strength comes in his ability to drain threes. Primarily as a role player, Lewis' range puts plenty of pressure on the defense and allows the offense to spread the floor. As a member of the Orlando Magic, he quickly earned himself a spot on the starting line-up and was an intricate part of the team in the post season. Now as a veteran, Lewis is currently part of the Miami Heat where, along side Allen, he has found yet another team in need of his three-point expertise.   

4. Monta Ellis (No. 40-2005)

Photo Courtesy of Danny Johnston

Before the likes of Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson took over the Golden State Warriors, Monta Ellis was the brand name and center piece of the team. In the 09-10 season, Ellis was playing extended minutes, averaging 41.4 minutes per game. With that time, Monta was scoring 25.5 points per game and 2.2 steals per game. Ellis' scoring capabilities were never doubted as he still continues to prove his worth for the Dallas Mavericks today. Many thought that Ellis lacked the proper maturity and was too selfish to be a great basketball player but he has proved his critics wrong by helping a struggling Mavericks squad make it into the Finals this past year. With more time, it is sure that Ellis will continue to improve and help Dirk carry the load on the offensive and defensive end. 

3.Goran Dragic (No. 45-2008)

Photo courtesy of Christian Peterson

Known as Steve Nash's back up point guard off the bench, Goran Dragic immediately caught the attention of Phoenix fans once he saw to some play time. The Slovenian native ball player has an edge to him that is makes him quite a pesky guard to defend. With his crafty lay-ups and on point passing, Dragic proved that he can be an effective starter once Nash headed to Los Angeles; furthermore, Dragic began to show hints of his own skills that emulate much of what Nash had done for the Suns. It is clear that Goran has spent much of his time observing and listening to his coaching staff as he consistently approves each and every year. This past season, his numbers have spiked as he is averaging 20.3 points per game and 5.9 assists per game in 35.1 minutes per game. Dragic is currently 28 but he still has plenty of time to continue to grow and develop with is Phoenix Suns squad that is slowly rebuilding itself.

2. Manu Ginobili (No.57-1999)

Photo Courtesy of Dave Einsel

Four-time NBA champion, two-time All-Star, Former sixth man of the year, what more can go on a player's resume. Well, how about FIBA Americas Championship MVP, Euroleague Champion and Finals MVP, two-time Italian league MVP and much, much more. Ginobili has electrified the game of basketball, bringing his famous euro-step move to the NBA and in the process, helping the Spurs capture four championships across three decades of basketball. The man has driven his coach crazy plenty of times but he has also solidified his career as a solid reserve player that will forever be part of San Antonio's big three from 2002 to present day. What more can be said but what Charles Barkley has always said: "Ginobillliiii!"

1. Marc Gasol (No.48-2007)

Photo Courtesy of Matt York

Marc Gasol proved that he will not be known only as the brother of Pau Gasol right when he stepped foot on to the center stage of the NBA hardwood floor. Marc has proved his worth in the past years has he continues to develop into one of the most elite big men in the league. Many say that Dwight Howard is still the best at his position but Marc is right behind him. He has the strength in the low post that his older brother has been criticized for lacking and he also has a great flat-footed jumper that consistently falls as well. Moreover, Marc is more than willing to play defense. Due to his ability to alter shots and play excellent perimeter defense, Marc earned himself the defensive player of the year award last year. As he continues to develop his offensive arsenal, Marc is going to be one of the best centers in NBA history, and he is just getting started.

So there you have, here are five more than capable athletes who so happened to find their way in the NBA later in the draft than others. As history has proven, even the best prospected players could turn into busts and even the last pick of the draft can make a huge impact on a team. In the end, nothing is really certain until the start of the season where these young athletes will have the opportunity to let their game to the talking.

The Draft will air on June 26, so see ya soon!