Despite the Sacramento Kings' failure to move up into the top three in the 2012 NBA Draft, there are still paths to what are considered or may be considered elite prospects. Anthony Davis isn't happening. Michael Kidd-Gilchrist most likely isn't happening. But everyone else could be in play.

THE PATH TO THOMAS ROBINSON

The Hornets take Davis No. 1. The Bobcats go with Kidd-Gilchrist at No. 2. The Wizards decide that John Wall needs a shooter and takes Harrison Barnes or Bradley Beal at No. 3. The Cavaliers opt for the other of those two wings to give Kyrie Irving a wing scorer. Robinson is on the board at No. 5.

THE PATH TO BRADLEY BEAL

The Hornets take Davis and the Bobcats take Kidd-Gilchrist or Robinson. The Wizards take the other. The Cavaliers opt for Barnes or one of the many big men (Andre Drummond, Perry Jones). Beal is on the board at No. 5.

THE PATH TO ANDRE DRUMMOND

There is no question that there's a strong chance Drummond will be on the board.

THE PATH TO HARRISON BARNES

There is no question that there's a strong chance Barnes — who might have been the No. 1 pick in 2011 — will be on the board.

***

Back in 2010, it seemed a longshot that DeMarcus Cousins would slip to No. 5 … and there weren't great other options (other than Greg Monroe). This year, there are a few potential DeMarcus Cousinses. I like that, and that gives me hope.