As the NBA Draft approaches, the Charlotte Hornets find themselves in an intriguing position potentially holding a top three overall pick. With pressing needs at power forward and shooting guard, the newly built Hornets front office faces the daunting task of selecting a prospect who can make an immediate impact while also contributing to the team’s long-term success. Many pundits have labeled the 2024 NBA draft one of the weaker ones in the past 20 years. The 2023-24 NBA Regular Season came to its conclusion on Sunday, April 14th, so its time to look ahead for the Hornets in the offseason.
Who should the Hornets target? Let’s delve into the top prospects who could potentially fill these positions and elevate the Hornets’ roster.
Biggest Roster Needs: Power Forward, Shooting Guard.
Power Forward:
Alexander Sarr (Perth Wildcats): Standing at 6’9″ with a solid frame, Sarr brings versatility and athleticism to the power forward position. The Senegalese forward has showcased his ability to score both inside and outside, averaging double figures in points and demonstrating proficiency in rebounding. Sarr’s defensive instincts and shot-blocking prowess add value to his overall game, making him an intriguing prospect for the Hornets’ frontcourt.
Cody Williams (Colorado): At 6’10” with a smooth shooting stroke, Williams possesses the size and skill set to excel as a stretch four in today’s NBA. His ability to knock down perimeter shots, coupled with his rebounding tenacity, makes him a valuable asset on both ends of the floor. Williams’ basketball IQ and high motor have garnered attention from NBA scouts, positioning him as a potential target for the Hornets to bolster their frontcourt depth.
Shooting Guard:
Ron Holland (G League Ignite): As a product of the G League Ignite program, Holland boasts NBA-ready skills and athleticism at the shooting guard position. Standing at 6’6″ with a 6’10” wingspan, he has the physical tools to defend multiple positions and disrupt passing lanes. Holland’s scoring ability, particularly his knack for creating his own shot off the dribble, adds a dynamic dimension to the Hornets’ backcourt and provides much-needed scoring punch.
Reed Sheppard (Kentucky): A highly touted prospect out of Kentucky, Sheppard is a versatile shooting guard with a polished offensive game. At 6’5″, he possesses a deadly combination of size, athleticism, and shooting ability, making him a constant threat on the perimeter. Sheppard’s basketball IQ and decision-making skills stand out, allowing him to excel in both half-court sets and transition offense. His potential to develop into a two-way standout makes him an enticing option for the Hornets.
Other Notable Prospects:
Rob Dillingham (Kentucky): A teammate of Shepard at Kentucky, Dillingham is a dynamic combo guard known for his scoring prowess and playmaking ability. Despite his slightly undersized frame at 6’3″, he compensates with elite quickness and ball-handling skills, enabling him to create separation and get to the basket at will. Dillingham’s offensive firepower could provide a spark off the bench for the Hornets and add depth to their guard rotation.
Stephon Castle (UConn): A rising star out of UConn, Castle is a talented shooting guard with unlimited potential. Standing at 6’6″ with a 6’9″ wingspan, he possesses prototypical size and athleticism for the NBA. Castle’s scoring ability, coupled with his defensive versatility, makes him a tantalizing prospect for the Hornets to consider. His ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor could make him a valuable long-term asset for the franchise.
Nikola Topic: Hailing from Europe, Topic is a skilled shooting guard with a smooth shooting stroke and basketball IQ beyond his years. Standing at 6’7″, he has the size and length to shoot over defenders and defend multiple positions effectively. Topic’s ability to stretch the floor and move without the ball could complement the Hornets’ offensive scheme and provide spacing for their playmakers.
As the Charlotte Hornets weigh their options leading up to the NBA Draft, they must carefully evaluate each prospect’s strengths, weaknesses, and fit within the team’s system. Whether they opt to address their needs at power forward or shooting guard, the Hornets have a wealth of talented prospects to choose from, each offering a unique skill set and potential to contribute to the team’s success in the years to come.
Desmond Johnson is the Owner/Editor of SportsCarolinaMonthly.com as well as Tobacco Road Sports Radio, your home for Triad Sports Coverage. Subscribe to the growing Youtube Channel at Youtube.com/@TobaccoRoadSportsRadio
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