1986 NBA Draft

1986 NBA Draft - 17 June 1986

Biggest disappointment

This has to be drugs in the form of Len Bias (at # 2) and Chris Washburn (# 3). Bias looked to be the heir apparent to Larry Bird for the Boston Celtics, a combination of Jordan and Bird, and compared to Bernard King at his best, in size and style, Bias would die from cocaine-induced heart failure before he ever made his NBA debut. Washburn looked like the next Karl Malone, at least in physical appearance, but not in moral fiber and work ethic. Washburn would test positive for drugs three times in as many years and get banned from the league. Two more lottery picks, William Bedford (# 6) and Roy Tarpley (# 7), would also lose their careers to substance abuse.

Related Topics:
Len Bias - Larry Bird - Boston Celtics - Bernard King - Karl Malone

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