Bobcats face critical decision

The Charlotte Bobcats' brief first round draft history isn't exactly a sterling example of how to best use your picks.

With Emeka Okafor looking for big-time, long-term deal and new coach Larry Brown seeking an immediate turnaround, Thursday's first-round draft choice is a monster for the Bobcats.

Okafor's selection at No. 2 overall is probably the franchise's best move in the first round, although that won't amount to much if he bolts to another city or asks for a trade after turning down a fair offer from Charlotte last season.

I also like last year's move, trading Brandan Wright to Golden State for Jason Richardson. Richardson has really evolved as a player since he entered the league and was known primarily for his athletic ability.

The other two years have produced questionable or downright bad picks. Getting the No. 5 spot in the 2005 NBA draft was an absolute disaster for Charlotte and completely altered the direction of the franchise. Wanting a point guard, Charlotte was forced to reach for Raymond Felton after watching Deron Williams and Chris Paul go No. 3 and No. 4, respectively. Williams has been a stud in Utah, and you can argue Paul deserved the NBA MVP this season. Felton hasn't been terrible, but it's tough playing in the shadows of those two players.

Adam Morrison at No. 3 overall hasn't worked out either. Morrison had an up-and-down rookie season and missed all of last year with an injury. Several scouts - and Charlotte fans - thought the Bobcats should have taken Brandon Roy. The selection of Sean May has also been a disappointment, namely due to May's injury history and refusal to get himself into serious NBA playing shape.

With that said, where should Charlotte turn this year?

There are a few options seriously worth considering:

Brook Lopez, C, Stanford
This has become the trendy pick in nearly every NBA mock draft. At 7-feet, Lopez would allow Okafor to slide into the power forward role full time, where he is more productive. Lopez may be gone but is probably the favorite if still available.

Russell Westbrook, G, UCLA
Westbrook would be a really good fit in Charlotte. He's one of the best on-the-ball defenders in the draft and could play sort of a combo, off-guard type role, spelling Felton at point and also playing some 2-guard.

D.J. Augustin, G, Texas
This would probably be a bit of a reach, but Augustin stood out big time at Texas and is already well-developed as a point guard.

Others: Most people think UCLA forward Kevin Love is going in the top-5, maybe the top-3. He reportedly canceled workouts with teams outside the top 5 ... Danilo Gallinari is a fluid Italian player who could help right away ... West Virginia's Joe Alexander would also be a great fit and bring some real toughness, but he's been shooting up the boards recently and may be gone by the time Charlotte picks.