9. Charlotte Hornets: Onyeka Okongwu, C, USC
Even falling one spot down in the NBA Draft Lottery, it’s safe to say that the Charlotte Hornets will still come away with one of the best frontcourt players in the draft. Most importantly, it’s a player that will fit right into what the team needs. Onyeka Okongwu could be the next great big in the NBA and fits a specific need for the Hornets.
Coming off a season in which he averaged 16 points, nine rebounds, and nearly three blocks, Okongwu will be able to slide right into the starting lineup – or even play behind Cody Zeller for a season.
It’s tough to say what the Hornets have in Terry Rozier, Miles Bridges, or even Devonte’ Graham, but they do have some young potential. Throw in Onyeka Okongwu and the team will almost certainly have a solid core to work with over the next couple of seasons.
The big question, though, is if any of these players can develop into something special?