Former NBA Lottery Picks On the Verge of Early Retirement

Apr 4, 2014; Portland, OR, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Eric Bledsoe (2) reaches in on Portland Trail Blazers forward Thomas Robinson (41) during the first quarter of the game at Moda Center. Mandatory Credit: Steve Dykes-USA TODAY Sports

Thomas Robinson, Portland Trailblazers

2012 NBA Draft: Round 1, Pick 5

Coming out of college, Thomas Robinson had the explosiveness, physical tools and defensive capabilities to be a dominant force at the power forward position.

The problem is, his offensive game was a total work in progress, and instead of waiting for it to develop, both the Kings and Rockets opted to give up on his services relatively early. (Which I’m sure affected his confidence early on.)

Now in year 4 of his career, Robinson has been subjugated to a reserve role with the Blazers and doesn’t appear likely to earn a new contract after this season.

Realistically, this year and the next could be his last chance to validate some value in the league, so it’s crucial he shows some form of improvement before it’s too late.