The Golden State Warriors almost have more picks than they know what to do with in the 2012 NBA Draft. Sheridan Hoops latest Mock Draft has the Warriors picking the Ohio State PF Jared Sullinger with the seventh pick.
However, sources told ESPN.com that the Buckeyes big fella has been medically red flagged by numerous team doctors for Sullinger's balky back. Sullinger missed two games last year due to back spasms.
Sullinger, who is projected to be a lottery pick in the 2012 NBA draft, underwent a series of medical tests at the NBA draft combine a week ago. According to sources, the doctors who looked at Sullinger were concerned with Sullinger's back. A number of NBA team doctors have reviewed the information from the NBA and have told their front office staff that Sullinger's back issues could shorten his NBA career and some have advised their teams not to draft him in the first round.
Ohio State coach Thad Matta said Sullinger is in fine shape and Sullinger's father came to the verbal rescue of the two-time All American, referring to the injury merely as tight hamstrings and tight quads.
Sullinger worked out with New Orleans on Monday and has already showcased for the Warriors and the Portland Trailblazers. He is scheduled to meet with the Toronto Raptors, the Cleveland Caviliers and the Detroit Pistons later this week.
Despite being one of the best college players on the board, the medical concerns may cause Sullinger to fall out of the top 10 picks. In 2009, Pittsburg's DeJaun Blair was red flagged for having balky knees and fell completely out of the first round - despite being one of the most accomplished college big men in the draft.
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