NBA Mock Draft 3.0: Lakers jump into the top 3; De’Andre Hunter enters top 5

NBA Virginia De'Andre Hunter (Photo by Ryan M. Kelly/Getty Images)
NBA Virginia De'Andre Hunter (Photo by Ryan M. Kelly/Getty Images)
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NBA Draft
NBA Draft Gonzaga Rui Hachimura (Photo by Darryl Oumi/Getty Images)

Rui Hachimura is a great leader and a proven winner. He’d be a great asset for any team selecting in the NBA Draft Lottery, but at the same time has somewhat of a limited ceiling, which could scare away a few teams. If history is any indication, though, that won’t be the case for the Charlotte Hornets, who have made some really surprising decisions over the last few drafts.

The Hornets need somewhat of a safe, smart pick here at No. 12 and that’s exactly what they would be doing by selecting Hachimura here. Hachimura might never be a star at the NBA level, but he’s one of the most NBA-ready players in this draft class.

He will be able to play a role for the Hornets next season, and would fit perfectly with Kemba Walker. Hachimura doesn’t need the ball in his hands to be an effective player, and is a good defensive prospect that could guard multiple positions. He’s a good fit for the Hornets.