I know you have read in these pages in past years that the Charlotte Hornets need to come up big in the NBA draft. I say it annually and the franchise never seems to find a franchise-changing player.
As the NBA Draft approaches (next week), few teams are better positioned to make an immediate impact than the Hornets. With three picks in the top 34, the Hornets have a prime opportunity to add players who can contribute immediately. Though it would be nice for the team to hit on a star for a change.
Charlotte is turning to this draft to reverse course after a disappointing 19-63 season. I guess the Hornets are building around a young core that includes LaMelo Ball, Brandon Miller, and Tidjane Salaün.
With a deep talent pool extending into the early second round, picks 33 and 34 could produce valuable contributors who outperform their draft positions. But it is pick 4 that they need to hit on.
Most mock drafts have Charlotte taking VJ Edgecombe out of Baylor with the fourth pick.
Edgecombe would significantly bolster the team’s defense while adding the safest and most complete player other than Cooper Flagg in the draft. The former Baylor product brings a strong all-around game, combining defensive tenacity with efficient scoring and playmaking. While Ball and Miller are undeniably talented, there’s clear room for growth on defense as both ranked near the bottom in defensive share, at No. 218 and No. 303 respectively. Edgecombe is a safe pick but has limited upside. Still, he averaged 16.5 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 3.8 assists per game while shooting a respectable 42% from deep last year for Baylor.
There is a chance that Johni Broome out of Auburn will be available with Pick 33. If he is and Charlotte is serious about improving its defense, it needs to take Broome. The power forward ranks sixth all-time at Auburn with 156 blocks, he is a proven rim protector who brings much-needed physicality and defensive presence. His 8.5 rebounds per game, which was second-best in the SEC, showcase his ability to control the glass, while his aggressive scoring in the post adds a reliable offensive option in the paint.
I like Kam Jones out of Marquette at pick 34 if he is available.
Adding another guard might not be Charlotte’s top priority in the draft, but Jones is widely known as a fundamentally sound basketball player. He offers a blend of scoring, leadership, and consistency that makes him a valuable two-way option.
With LaMelo Ball still the face of the franchise, that might feel like enough. However, if the team doesn’t start winning, questions about Ball’s long-term future could emerge, potentially leading to a trade request from him or the franchise deciding to move him to maximize his value. In other words, it may not hurt to have a few extra guards.
