Ranking Smartest No. 1 Draft Pick Choices Since 1980
1 / 6OrlandoMagic.com's Josh Cohen ranks the smartest draft decisions with the No. 1 overall pick since 1980. But note, this is not a ranking of the best players selected first but rather players that could have easily been passed over at that slot. #5 Kyrie Irving, 2011 Cohen’s Analysis: Everyone knew he had the talent, but injuries made Irving a dubious No. 1 overall pick. Irving missed the majority of his only season at Duke with a severe ligament injury in his right big toe. While he continues to deal with a number of pestering injuries, Irving has transformed into one of the most electrifying players in the league. Without Irving (other possible draft option was Derrick Williams), the Cavs probably never retain LeBron James a few years later.