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NBA GM Survey Results 2012: Andrew Nicholson, Maurice Harkless Potential "Sleepers" in Rookie Class

Might Magic forwards Andrew Nicholson and Maurice Harkless have surprisingly productive rookie campaigns? Some NBA general managers think so.

By Evan Dunlap
Nick Laham - Getty Images Sport

The NBA has released the results of its annual survey of the league's general managers, covering a range of topics from NBA champions to best players at each position and everything in between. GMs aren't allowed to vote for their own teams, coaches, or players on the survey's questions.

The league's GMs don't have too much to say about the rebuilding Orlando Magic heading into the 2012/13 season, but they nonetheless believe rookie forwards Andrew Nicholson and Maurice Harkless could be headed for big seasons. In response to the question, "Which rookie is most likely to be a "sleeper" success?," Orlando's Nicholson and Harkless tied for second place, each receiving 13.8 percent of the vote; only Boston Celtics forward Jared Sullinger, with 17.2 percent, earned more consideration in this category.

Nicholson, the 19th overall selection in the 2012 Draft, is averaging 12.6 points and 4.6 rebounds through five preseason games, shooting 51.9 percent from the floor. The 6-foot-10 forward won Atlantic 10 Player of the Year honors in his senior season at St. Bonaventure. Harkless has yet to play this preseason due to a sports hernia injury, but showed great potential and versatility in his lone season at St. John's and, selected at 15th overall, was nearly a lottery pick.

Elsewhere in the survey, Orlando swingman Christian Eyenga received one vote for the international player "most likely to have a breakout season" in the coming campaign. Toronto Raptors rookie Jonas Valančiūnas won that category with 17.2 percent of the vote.

In addition, one NBA general manager recognized Magic veteran J.J. Redick's ability to move without the ball. To no one's surprise, Miami Heat guard Ray Allen dominated that category, getting 56.7 percent of the vote; Chicago Bulls guard Richard Hamilton came in a distant second, with 10 percent of the vote.

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