The Most Disappointing No. 3 And No. 4 Draft Picks In The Lottery Era

Kristaps Porzingis Stats: 19.3 PPG, 6.8 RPG, 1.9 APG, 0.7 SPG, 1.8 BPG

Jahlil Okafor Stats: 10.4 PPG, 4.7 RPG, 1.3 APG, 0.4 SPG, 1.0 BPG

In the 2015 NBA Draft, Jahlil Okafor was selected as the third overall pick by the Philadelphia 76ers, and Kristaps Porzingis was chosen fourth overall by the New York Knicks. This draft comparison highlights a significant disparity in outcomes, with one player evolving into an All-Star and the other facing challenges that limited his impact.

Kristaps Porzingis, a dynamic and versatile forward, quickly became a sensation with his unique combination of size, shooting, and shot-blocking abilities. Averaging 19.3 points, 6.8 rebounds, 1.9 assists, 0.7 steals, and 1.8 blocks per game, Porzingis established himself as one of the league's most promising young talents. His impact went beyond traditional big man skills, as he showcased the ability to stretch the floor and protect the rim.

Porzingis earned All-Star nods and became a focal point for the New York Knicks before being traded to the Dallas Mavericks, where he spent some time and then went on to play for the Wizards, and now for the Celtics. Despite dealing with injuries that temporarily slowed his progress, Porzingis rebounded and continued to be a dynamic force on both ends of the court. His career trajectory aligns with the expectations set for a high lottery pick, making him a standout performer from the 2015 NBA Draft's third and fourth selections.

Jahlil Okafor entered the NBA with high expectations due to his polished low-post scoring and dominant college career at Duke. Averaging 10.4 points, 4.7 rebounds, 1.3 assists, 0.4 steals, and 1.0 blocks per game, Okafor showed promise as a scoring big man. Sadly, his defensive limitations, particularly in the evolving pace-and-space era of the NBA, and off-court issues hindered his overall impact.

Okafor faced challenges adapting to the modern style of play that prioritizes versatility, mobility, and defensive prowess from big men. Despite contributing offensively, particularly in the paint, he struggled to secure a stable role within teams. Multiple team changes, including stints with the Brooklyn Nets and New Orleans Pelicans, marked Okafor's journey, and he fell short of the star potential expected from a third overall pick.

9. Chris Jackson & Dennis Scott (1990 NBA Draft)

Chris Jackson Stats: 14.6 PPG, 2.2 RPG, 2.6 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.1 BPG

Dennis Scott Stats: 12.9 PPG, 3.0 RPG, 2.8 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.4 BPG

In the 1990 NBA Draft, the Denver Nuggets used the third overall pick to select Chris Jackson, a talented guard out of LSU. With an impressive college career where he averaged 30.2 points per game, expectations were high for Jackson's transition to the professional stage. Despite exhibiting initial promise, his career trajectory fell short of the lofty expectations set during his college days.

Jackson's tenure with the Denver Nuggets began with promise, showcasing scoring ability with an average of 14.6 points per game. His offensive repertoire, marked by a smooth jump shot and explosive drives, hinted at star potential. Unfortunately, injuries and off-court controversies, including his conversion to Islam and name change to Mahmoud Abdul-Rauf, hindered his progress.

The promising start to Jackson's career couldn't be sustained, and his production declined over the years. By the time he left the NBA, he had played for several teams, but none of them saw the level of performance that was expected from a third overall pick.

On the other side of the 1990 NBA Draft's disappointment ledger was Dennis Scott, selected as the fourth overall pick by the Orlando Magic. Known for his sharpshooting prowess, Scott was expected to be a valuable asset from beyond the arc. His stats, including 12.9 points, 3.0 rebounds, 2.8 assists, 1.1 steals, and 0.4 blocks per game, were respectable, but they didn't elevate him to the status of a franchise player.

Scott played a significant role in the Magic's early years, particularly as a member of the "Shaq and Penny" era alongside Shaquille O'Neal and Anfernee Hardaway. Injuries and the emergence of other players in the league overshadowed Scott's impact. Despite contributing to various teams during his career, he never became the cornerstone player expected from a fourth overall pick.

8. Enes Kanter & Tristan Thompson (2011 NBA Draft)

Enes Kanter Stats: 11.2 PPG, 7.6 RPG, 0.8 APG, 0.4 SPG, 0.8 BPG

Tristan Thompson Stats: 9.1 PPG, 8.5 RPG, 1.0 APG, 0.4 SPG, 0.8 BPG

In the 2011 NBA Draft, Enes Kanter was chosen as the third overall pick by the Utah Jazz, and Tristan Thompson was selected fourth overall by the Cleveland Cavaliers. Both players entered the league with promise, but their careers faced challenges that led to outcomes falling short of the anticipated impact for high draft selections.

Enes Kanter, a skilled center with offensive prowess, showcased the ability to score and rebound. Averaging 11.2 points, 7.6 rebounds, 0.8 assists, 0.4 steals, and 0.8 blocks per game, Kanter demonstrated his value in the paint. Despite his scoring ability, Kanter struggled to establish himself as a dominant force in the NBA.

Kanter's defensive limitations and challenges in adapting to the evolving style of play hindered his impact. While he provided valuable minutes for various teams, including the Utah Jazz and Oklahoma City Thunder, Kanter's career trajectory did not align with the expectations set for a third overall pick. His journey included multiple team changes, and he often found himself coming off the bench, limiting his overall influence.

Tristan Thompson, known for his rebounding and defensive skills, entered the league with the Cleveland Cavaliers. Averaging 9.1 points, 8.5 rebounds, 1.0 assists, 0.4 steals, and 0.8 blocks per game, Thompson showcased a strong presence in the frontcourt. Despite contributing to the Cavaliers' success, including an NBA championship in 2016, Thompson faced challenges in becoming a consistent offensive threat.

Thompson's limited offensive repertoire and struggles from the free-throw line posed challenges for his overall impact. While he remained a valuable contributor, particularly on the boards, Thompson's career did not ascend to the levels expected from a fourth overall pick. Changes in team dynamics, including a move to the Boston Celtics and a comeback to the Cavaliers recently, further shaped his career path.

7. Raef LaFrentz & Antawn Jamison (1998 NBA Draft)

Raef LaFrentz Stats: 10.1 PPG, 6.1 RPG, 1.6 APG, 0.5 SPG, 2.1 BPG

Antawn Jamison Stats: 18.9 PPG, 6.7 RPG, 1.8 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.5 BPG

In the 1998 NBA Draft, Raef LaFrentz was chosen as the third overall pick by the Denver Nuggets, and Antawn Jamison was selected fourth overall by the Toronto Raptors (traded to the Golden State Warriors). Both players entered the league with high expectations, but as their careers unfolded, they faced challenges in meeting the anticipated standards.

Denver's selection of Raef LaFrentz was fueled by his impressive collegiate career at the University of Kansas. Standing as a 6'11" center with a versatile skill set, LaFrentz was expected to anchor the Nuggets' frontcourt. Averaging 10.1 points, 6.1 rebounds, 1.6 assists, 0.5 steals, and 2.1 blocks per game, LaFrentz displayed shot-blocking prowess but struggled to become the dominant force envisioned for a third overall pick.

Injuries played a significant role in hindering LaFrentz's progress. Knee issues plagued his career, limiting his availability and impacting his on-court effectiveness. Despite showcasing glimpses of his potential, LaFrentz's career never reached the heights expected from a top-three selection. Multiple team stints, including the Dallas Mavericks and Boston Celtics, characterized his journey, highlighting the challenges he faced in realizing his early potential.

Antawn Jamison, on the other hand, was known for his scoring prowess and versatility coming out of the University of North Carolina. Traded to the Golden State Warriors, Jamison quickly established himself as a reliable scorer. Averaging 18.9 points, 6.7 rebounds, 1.8 assists, 1.1 steals, and 0.5 blocks per game, Jamison displayed offensive proficiency but struggled to transform his individual success into team accomplishments.

Despite being a two-time NBA All-Star and winning the Sixth Man of the Year award, Jamison's teams never made significant playoff runs during his prime. His career path took him through various franchises, including the Dallas Mavericks, Washington Wizards, and Cleveland Cavaliers. While Jamison enjoyed individual success, the lack of team achievements marked his career as falling short of the expectations typically associated with a fourth overall pick.

6. Derrick Favors & Wesley Johnson (2010 NBA Draft)

Derrick Favors Stats: 10.8 PPG, 7.2 RPG, 1.2 APG, 0.8 SPG, 1.3 BPG

Wesley Johnson Stats: 7.0 PPG, 3.2 RPG, 1.5 APG, 1.0 SPG, 0.6 BPG

In the 2010 NBA Draft, Derrick Favors was selected as the third overall pick by the New Jersey Nets (now Brooklyn Nets), and Wesley Johnson was chosen fourth overall by the Minnesota Timberwolves. While both players carved out NBA careers, their paths were marked by challenges, and their impact fell short of the expectations associated with high draft selections.

Derrick Favors, a powerful and athletic big man, was expected to make an immediate impact in the NBA. Averaging 10.8 points, 7.2 rebounds, 1.2 assists, 0.8 steals, and 1.3 blocks per game, Favors demonstrated solid all-around contributions. Despite his physical tools, Favors faced challenges in finding a stable role within teams, leading to several trades during his career.

Inconsistencies in offensive production and changes in team dynamics contributed to Favors' journey. While he remained a valuable contributor, his career fell short of the star potential anticipated for a third overall pick. Favors' impact was often overshadowed by other players on his teams, preventing him from becoming the centerpiece many envisioned.

Wesley Johnson, known for his scoring and defensive abilities coming out of Syracuse University, entered the league with high expectations. Averaging 7.0 points, 3.2 rebounds, 1.5 assists, 1.0 steals, and 0.6 blocks per game, Johnson struggled to establish himself as a consistent starter in the NBA.

Johnson's offensive game, particularly his shooting consistency, became a point of concern. Despite showcasing defensive skills, he faced challenges in finding his offensive rhythm, limiting his overall impact. Team changes, including stints with the Phoenix Suns and Los Angeles Lakers, further complicated Johnson's ability to develop into a reliable and impactful player.

5. Darius Miles & Marcus Fizer (2000 NBA Draft)

Darius Miles Stats: 10.1 PPG, 4.9 RPG, 1.5 APG, 1.1 SPG, 1.1 BPG

Marcus Fizer Stats: 9.6 PPG, 4.6 RPG, 1.2 APG, 0.5 SPG, 0.4 BPG

In the 2000 NBA Draft, Darius Miles was selected as the third overall pick by the Los Angeles Clippers, and Marcus Fizer was chosen fourth overall by the Chicago Bulls. Both players entered the league with significant potential, but their careers took unexpected turns, leading to outcomes that fell short of the anticipated star status.

Darius Miles arrived in the NBA with a reputation for athleticism and a sky-high ceiling. Averaging 10.1 points, 4.9 rebounds, 1.5 assists, 1.1 steals, and 1.1 blocks per game during his early years with the Clippers, Miles showcased flashes of brilliance. However, injuries and inconsistency plagued his career, preventing him from harnessing his full potential.

Miles' journey included stints with multiple teams, including the Cleveland Cavaliers and Portland Trail Blazers. Injuries, particularly knee issues, hampered his ability to stay on the court consistently, robbing him of the opportunity to develop into the dynamic player many envisioned. Despite occasional spectacular plays and defensive prowess, Miles struggled to establish himself as a reliable and enduring presence in the league.

Marcus Fizer, selected by the Chicago Bulls, entered the NBA with expectations of providing scoring and toughness in the frontcourt. Averaging 9.6 points, 4.6 rebounds, 1.2 assists, 0.5 steals, and 0.4 blocks per game, Fizer's contributions remained modest. Challenges adapting to the NBA game, coupled with inconsistent performances, hindered his ability to secure a prominent role within the Bulls' rotation.

Fizer faced intense competition for playing time, and team changes further disrupted his development. Despite demonstrating offensive skills, including a reliable mid-range jump shot, Fizer struggled to carve out a niche in the competitive NBA landscape. His career trajectory was marked by inconsistency, and he couldn't fulfill the expectations placed on a fourth overall pick.

4. Mike Dunleavy Jr. & Drew Gooden (2002 NBA Draft)

Mike Dunleavy Jr. Stats: 11.2 PPG, 4.5 RPG, 2.2 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.4 BPG

Drew Gooden Stats: 11.0 PPG, 7.1 RPG, 1.4 APG, 0.7 SPG, 0.5 BPG

In the 2002 NBA Draft, Mike Dunleavy Jr. was chosen as the third overall pick by the Golden State Warriors, and Drew Gooden was selected fourth overall by the Memphis Grizzlies. While both players enjoyed lengthy NBA careers, they fell short of the star expectations that typically accompany high draft selections.

Mike Dunleavy Jr. entered the league as a versatile forward with the ability to score, rebound, and facilitate. Averaging 11.2 points, 4.5 rebounds, 2.2 assists, 0.8 steals, and 0.4 blocks per game, Dunleavy displayed a well-rounded game. Despite a respectable career, he faced challenges in living up to the hype of being the third overall pick.

Injuries played a role in limiting Dunleavy's impact, preventing him from reaching his full potential on the court. While he contributed to several teams, including the Indiana Pacers and Milwaukee Bucks, Dunleavy couldn't establish himself as a go-to player or a consistent star. His career trajectory, while solid, didn't align with the expectations set for a top-three pick.

Drew Gooden, selected by the Memphis Grizzlies, was known for his rebounding and scoring ability in the frontcourt. Averaging 11.0 points, 7.1 rebounds, 1.4 assists, 0.7 steals, and 0.5 blocks per game, Gooden contributed across multiple statistical categories. Similar to Dunleavy, he faced challenges in becoming the franchise player anticipated for a fourth overall pick.

Gooden's career took him through various teams, including the Orlando Magic, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Milwaukee Bucks. While he had impactful seasons, inconsistency and changes in team dynamics prevented him from establishing a lasting legacy as a premier big man in the league. Despite his solid contributions, Gooden's career fell short of the star status often associated with high draft selections.

3. Otto Porter & Cody Zeller (2013 NBA Draft)

Otto Porter Stats: 10.3 PPG, 4.9 RPG, 1.5 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.4 BPG

Cody Zeller Stats: 8.1 PPG, 5.8 RPG, 1.4 APG, 0.6 SPG, 0.6 BPG

In the 2013 NBA Draft, Otto Porter was selected as the third overall pick by the Washington Wizards, and Cody Zeller was chosen fourth overall by the Charlotte Bobcats (now Charlotte Hornets). Both players entered the league with expectations of contributing significantly, but their careers faced challenges that impacted their overall impact.

Otto Porter, a versatile forward known for his scoring and defensive abilities, was expected to be a key contributor for the Washington Wizards. Averaging 10.3 points, 4.9 rebounds, 1.5 assists, 1.15 steals, and 0.4 blocks per game, Porter showcased glimpses of his potential. Injuries and inconsistency limited his ability to become the go-to player the Wizards envisioned.

Porter's defensive prowess and three-point shooting were among his strengths, but he struggled to stay healthy and maintain a consistent presence on the court. Despite contributing to the Wizards' playoff runs, his career fell short of the star expectations typically associated with a third overall pick. Team changes, including a move to the Toronto Raptors after winning the 2022 championship in Golden State, further shaped Porter's NBA journey.

Cody Zeller, a skilled big man with the ability to score inside and rebound, entered the league with the Charlotte Bobcats. Averaging 8.1 points, 5.8 rebounds, 1.4 assists, 0.6 steals, and 0.6 blocks per game, Zeller displayed a solid all-around game. Despite that, challenges in becoming a consistent offensive threat and facing competition for playing time impacted his overall impact.

Zeller's career included multiple team changes, and while he remained a serviceable player, he struggled to secure a prominent role within rotations. Injuries also played a role in limiting Zeller's availability, preventing him from reaching his full potential on the court. Despite his contributions, Zeller's career did not align with the expectations set for a fourth overall pick.

2. Christian Laettner & Jimmy Jackson (1992 NBA Draft)

Christian Laettner Stats: 12.8 PPG, 6.7 RPG, 2.6 APG, 0.6 SPG, 1.1 BPG

Jimmy Jackson Stats: 14.2 PPG, 4.8 RPG, 3.1 APG, 1.0 SPG, 0.4 BPG

In the 1992 NBA Draft, the Minnesota Timberwolves invested their third overall pick in Christian Laettner, an exceptional player with a celebrated college career at Duke University. Laettner's college success, highlighted by his game-winning shot in the NCAA tournament, fueled immense expectations. However, upon entering the NBA, Laettner faced numerous challenges that hindered his ability to fulfill the anticipated star potential.

Despite posting respectable numbers of 12.8 points, 6.7 rebounds, 2.6 assists, 0.6 steals, and 1.1 blocks per game, Laettner struggled with consistency and failed to translate his college dominance into sustained success at the professional level. His journeyman career saw him donning the jerseys of multiple teams, including the Timberwolves, Atlanta Hawks, and Detroit Pistons. While he remained a serviceable player, Laettner's inability to become the transformative player envisioned by many reflected a combination of factors.

In part, injuries played a role in limiting Laettner's impact. The physical demands of the NBA took a toll on his body, preventing him from performing at the level expected from a top-three draft pick. Additionally, the pressures of living up to the hype generated by his college heroics seemed to weigh heavily on Laettner, affecting his confidence and on-court decision-making.

On the other side of the 1992 NBA Draft spectrum was Jimmy Jackson, selected fourth overall by the Dallas Mavericks. Jackson, known for his scoring prowess, entered the league with high expectations as well. Averaging 14.2 points, 4.8 rebounds, 3.1 assists, 1.0 steals, and 0.4 blocks per game, Jackson displayed a well-rounded game. However, similar to Laettner, his career trajectory fell short of the star status anticipated for a top-five pick.

Jackson's career was marked by team changes and injuries that disrupted his continuity in the league. Despite showcasing scoring abilities and contributing to various teams, Jackson couldn't establish himself as the franchise player the Mavericks hoped for when making the fourth overall selection. Injuries, in particular, played a significant role in impeding Jackson's progress, preventing him from reaching his full potential on the court.

1. Adam Morrison & Tyrus Thomas (2006 NBA Draft)

Adam Morrison Stats: 7.5 PPG, 2.1 RPG, 1.4 APG, 0.5 SPG, 0.1 BPG

Tyrus Thomas Stats: 7.7 PPG, 4.8 RPG, 0.5 APG, 0.7 SPG, 1.3 BPG

In the 2006 NBA Draft, the Charlotte Bobcats selected Adam Morrison as the third overall pick, and Tyrus Thomas was chosen fourth overall by the Portland Trail Blazers (traded to the Chicago Bulls). Despite showcasing potential, both players faced challenges in realizing the expectations set for them, resulting in careers that fell short of the anticipated impact.

Adam Morrison, known for his scoring ability and remarkable college career at Gonzaga, entered the NBA with high expectations. Averaging 7.5 points, 2.1 rebounds, 1.4 assists, 0.5 steals, and 0.1 blocks per game, Morrison struggled to adapt his game to the professional level. Injuries, particularly a torn ACL, derailed his career early on, limiting his playing time and hindering his effectiveness on the court.

Morrison's defensive shortcomings and difficulties fitting into the NBA's faster-paced style of play contributed to his challenges. Despite winning two NBA championships as a member of the Los Angeles Lakers, his individual impact remained limited. His career trajectory fell short of the star potential envisioned for a third overall pick, serving as a reminder of the uncertainties players face in transitioning from college success to the professional level.

Tyrus Thomas, a highly athletic forward known for his shot-blocking and rebounding, entered the league with the Chicago Bulls after a draft-day trade. Averaging 7.7 points, 4.8 rebounds, 0.5 assists, 0.7 steals, and 1.3 blocks per game, Thomas showcased defensive prowess but struggled to find consistent offensive production.

Inconsistency, both in terms of performance and playing time, marked Thomas' career. Despite displaying flashes of athleticism and shot-blocking ability, he failed to establish himself as a reliable starter. Team changes, including stints with the Charlotte Bobcats and the New York Knicks, further complicated his development. While Thomas contributed defensively, his offensive limitations and struggles to find a stable role limited his overall impact, falling short of the expectations tied to a fourth overall pick.