This year's NBA draft is shaping up to be one of the most exciting versions in recent memory, so make sure you don't miss a second of the action.
Although there are few sure things in this class, there is a deep pool of talented prospects that will help teams throughout both rounds.
As a result, fans should expect quite a few surprises early on while teams rely on their own scouting rather than league-wide consensus. Do not be shocked if there are plenty of trades in the opening round, as teams look to get the most out of their spot in the draft.
The night is certain to be memorable, so here is a guide to keep you up to date on what you need to know for the 2013 NBA draft.
When: Thursday, June 27
Where: Barclays Center, Brooklyn, NY
Time: 7:30 p.m. ET
TV: ESPN
Live Stream: Watch ESPN
Top Storylines
Who Will Go No. 1?
Usually at this point of the process, the first overall pick has long been determined. That is not the case this year, as the Cleveland Cavaliers continue to explore all options.
Nerlens Noel has been the name on top of boards since the beginning of the collegiate season, and there is plenty of reason to believe he will remain there. He is an elite shot-blocker and has the athleticism to one day be a force on the offensive end as well.
However, there are plenty of other names that have been thrown out as alternatives. Maryland's Alex Len has a wide repertoire of moves on the offensive end, although he hasn't shown the consistency that teams are looking for to this point in his career.
Meanwhile, Otto Porter, Anthony Bennett and Ben McLemore are also possibilities for the first overall pick.
Of course, do not count out a trade either if someone is willing to provide the Cavaliers with a nice package.
Will There Be a Major Trade?
There will almost certainly be a few trades on Thursday, but the question is how much they will affect the draft.
One team looking to make a big move is the Minnesota Timberwolves. According to ESPN's Chad Ford and Marc Stein, the team is trying to trade up into the top-five picks in order to select Victor Oladipo or Ben McLemore.
Additionally, Andy Katz of ESPN reported that the Oklahoma City Thunder are also trying to move up from No. 12 by trading away Kendrick Perkins.
These will pale in comparison to a trade that involves the Cavaliers, as the squad is once again looking to move out of the No. 1 spot. According to Adam Kennedy of Hoops World, Cleveland offered to swap picks with the New Orleans Pelicans for Greivis Vasquez and a 2014 pick.
Any of these potential trades could make a huge impact on the future of the league.
Which Players Will Slide?
Although some top prospects could be considered top-five picks by every writer who makes a mock draft, NBA general managers might disagree.
Especially in this draft with so much uncertainty, it would not be surprising to see a consensus lottery pick remain on the board for much longer than many would believe.
One player that could end up falling far is Shabazz Muhammad, who was once considered one of the best prospects in the entire class. However, struggles on and off the court have seen his stock drop dramatically.
The UCLA small forward could be one of a few players that will be waiting around for a long time on draft night.
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