NBA Draft 2014: Marcus Smart, Nik Stauskas Prove That It’s Not All About The One And Dones! Battle-tested Collegians May Be Draft Steals!

The NBA Draft 2014 is nearing, and while everyone is talking about the three freshmen at the top three, there are also college veterans that are possible lottery picks.

Marcus Smart is definitely the leader and their only chance to break the top 5. He was supposed to join last year's draft as a one and done but he stayed. Instead of vying for first overall last year, he is down to shooting for top 5.

Which could be a big mistake for teams who pass on him. Ranked number 6 on Chad Ford's Big Board (ESPN):  

"Look out, here comes Marcus Smart. After getting picked apart for much of the season by scouts, the love affair for Smart seems to be growing once again. NBA GMs who grumbled about him all season are warming up. His size and strength at point guard, plus his motor and leadership on the court all are so appealing. Plus, his workout was terrific. He shot the ball very well and, like Parker, went hard on every set. I think he's in the mix at No. 4 to the Magic (especially if Exum is off the board) and appears to be getting looks from the Celtics at No. 6 and the Lakers at No. 7. It's hard to believe he slides past the Kings at No. 8."

Another prime prospect is Nik Stauskas. Claiming fame in the NCAA Championship game when he offered some resistance against eventual champions Louisville.

He raised his game the next season, and now, it's time.

"Stauskas continues to carry the label as the best pure shooter in the draft. He has his first two workouts this week in Boston and L.A. The Celtics pick sixth and the Lakers pick seventh, which feels a bit high for Stauskas, but given the buzz he's had recently, getting drafted that high is not out of the question. He'll also get looks from Charlotte, Philly, Denver, Orlando and Minnesota. It's hard to see him slipping past the Timberwolves, a team looking for shooters."

These guys deserve a shot. With hard work, they can overcome the obsession for one and dones.