The Hornets are considering Onyeka Okongwu with the Third Pick
The draft is only about two weeks away and the Hornets are a team to keep an eye on as they were able to jump five spots to secure the third pick in the 2020 draft lottery.
The narrative around this draft has been there is a ‘big three’ of draft prospects that include James Wiseman, Anthony Edwards, and Lamelo Ball. Despite Charlotte being guaranteed at least one of these prospects, it doesn’t seem like a lock they will end up drafting one of these three players.
According to Kevin O’Connor of the ringer, the Hornets are ‘heavily considering’ taking Onyeka Okongwu with the third pick.
Many argue Onyeka Okongwu is the best defender in the draft. He has great instincts in the post and can block shots at a tremendous rate (2.7 BPG), he can also switch on guards in the perimeter. Offensively, he has the ability to run up and down the court and has some polish in the post. These abilities have given Okongwu a lot of comparison to Bam Adebayo, All-Star center for the Miami Heat.
The only clear hole the Hornets have in their starting lineup is at the center spot, which Okongwu can play in the modern NBA, despite his 6’9” frame.
The Hornets also reportedly covet James Wiseman, who is considered by many scouts the most talented big in the draft, throughout this draft process and would consider trading up to get him.
With the rumors of Lamelo Ball’s slipping out of the top 3 due to poor interviews and how Charlotte has been interested in Okongwu and Wiseman, it seems like Charlotte would love to draft a big to slide into their starting lineup.
