2019 NBA Mock Draft 3.0
By Jakob Ashlin
Gonzaga. Rui Hachimura. 16. 170. Scouting Report. Power Forward. player. Pick Analysis
The Charlotte Hornets have a very thin roster, especially in the frontcourt. Kemba Walker, Malik Monk, and Jeremy Lamb have all produced at the guard spot, but Marvin Williams leads the frontcourt in scoring at only 10.3 points per game, while only shooting 42.2% from the field.
Rui Hachimura could be the difference maker they need. Hachimura is excellent in transition. He can run the floor or handle the ball, and his athleticism and vertical make him dangerous near the rim. A lineup consisting of Walker, Monk, Lamb, Bridges, and Hachimura would be very good in the open floor and could shoot the ball in the halfcourt.
Hachimura plays with a lot of energy and his speed and size allow him to defend multiple positions. His recognition and technique are still improving, but he has all the tools.
Hachimura struggled shooting the ball from three-point range, but his percentage has vastly improved this season. Albeit, it was on a small sample size (11-26).