NBA: Statistical projections for the top 10 picks from the 2019 draft

8. Jaxson Hayes, New Orleans Pelicans

The Pelicans decided to move down from the 4th pick in the draft, that they acquired from the Lakers in the Anthony Davis trade, and selected Texas big man Jaxson Hayes. Hayes was a bit of a late riser on draft board as teams became enamored with his athleticism and potential.

Potential is the keyword with Hayes as he is still raw in some aspects of the game. The first thing he will need to do is add a little more weight to his frame. Standing at 6-foot-11 and 220 pounds, Hayes is on the slimmer side of NBA big men. He is also a relative unknown because of his role in his only season at Texas. Hayes started only 21 games and did a lot of his damage with his energy and athleticism.

There is still a lot to like about Hayes for the upcoming season. He averaged over 2 blocks per game at Texas and shot nearly 73 percent from the field. The Pelicans are the new home of Lonzo Ball, and along with Jrue Holiday, Hayes should get plenty of lobs thrown his way following a pick-and-roll.

His contributions this year could end up being limited due to the time he will see on the floor but the potential is there for his role to grow. Hayes showed some eye-popping flashes during his summer league action, including this dunk, that was the talk of social media. At the very least, Hayes makes the Pelicans just that much more fun.

Stat Projections: 7.1 points, 3.8 rebounds, 0.8 assists, 1.1 blocks, 61% FG