The Charlotte Hornets need all the talent that they can get. Kemba Walker seems committed to the franchise, but Jeremy Lamb is the only other player on the roster that averages at least 15 points per game. De’Andre Hunter would fit right in at small forward. Miles Bridges has been seeing minutes at power forward, and the team’s current small forward, Nicolas Batum, is clearly not the answer. Hunter is a complete two-way player. He is a talented perimeter defender and three-point shooter (41.5% this season). Hunter should be able to help Charlotte compete right away while still offering long term potential.
The Boston Celtics will receive this pick via the Sacramento Kings. As I previously mentioned, I do not expect the Celtics to keep all their picks. Nevertheless, Nickeil Alexander-Walker is an intriguing prospect. He has great size for a guard standing at 6’6″ with a 6’9″ wingspan and can shoot the ball well from deep (41.7% this season). He is a smart player with good instincts and can handle minutes in the NBA from day one.
Bol Bol’s draft stock has taken a hit since he suffered a season-ending foot injury, but teams would be wise to not be overcautious when it comes to Bol. He was absolutely dominant on the floor this season. He put up averages of 21 points, 9.6 rebounds, and 2.7 blocks. More importantly, he scored in extremely efficient fashion shooting a scorching 52% from three and 56.1% from the field. Standing at 7’2″ with a 7’8″ wingspan, Bol will be difficult for opponents to handle in the NBA. The Lakers have had a need at center and landing Bol would be an amazing outcome.
The Minnesota Timberwolves would not be a potential landing spot for Bol Bol due to Karl Anthony-Towns, so they draft according to need here. Taj Gibson is 33 years old and the Timberwolves are probably interested in upgrading the power forward position anyway. Hachimura is exceptional in transition due to his speed and athleticism. He is a good ball handler for a big man and can beat defenders off the dribble and finish in the lane. Hachimura plays with a lot of energy and is a versatile defender. If he can develop as a shooter, his ceiling should be very high.
The Atlanta Hawks will receive this pick from the Dallas Mavericks as part of the Luka Doncic trade. Kevin Porter Jr. will be high on many draft boards due to his athleticism and ball handling. Porter Jr. has also flashed the ability to score from anywhere on the floor. He still needs to improve as a free-throw shooter and has a tendency to hold onto the ball too long. The Hawks would have their backcourt of the future in Porter Jr. and Trae Young.