The Forgotten Man, Patrick Patterson

Of the FIVE Kentucky Wildcats expected to be drafted in the first round of this year's draft it's the four freshmen who get most of the attention and hype.  They're young and exiting while the older guy is, dare I say, just a bit boring.  But despite not being a media darling, junior power forward Patrick Patterson is a player who can step in right away and make a difference on an NBA team and is about as sure of a prospect as you can get.  

While his upside is not through the roof like Wall and Cousins and he doesn't get the attention like Orton and Bledsoe he does have a game that fits the NBA style of play.  He should produce early in his career and would be a good fit for a playoff caliber team such as the Jazz or Hornets.  

Patterson reminds me of David West with his solid all around game including a good mid range jumper. He has extended his offensive game out to about the college three and works the baseline very well.  He is unlikely to become a number one or two scorer but seems like a very good third option and could thrive with a pass first point guard like Deron Williams or Chris Paul.

He has a lot of versatility and can guard the three and four positions and has good potential as a rebounder.  He is quick up and down the court and excels at getting out on the break and filling lanes.

Looking back on this draft a few years from now there will be some major busts and disappointments at the top of the draft.  Some of the big hype players will have failed to find their footing but it seems quite certain that Patrick Patterson will be a solid pro and could make some teams regret choosing a younger, more hyped player over this steady veteran.