WCNC+ will have a live draft special on June 25 at 7 p.m.
CHARLOTTE, N.C. β While the sting of not landing the No. 1 pick in the NBA Draft lottery, and the right to select Duke star Cooper Flagg is still fresh, it’s time for Hornets fans to move on.
The team has the No. 4 overall selection in the June 25 draft. Charlotte Observer writer, Rod Boone, who covers the team, stopped by the WCNC LIVE IMPACT NEWS studio to discuss with WCNC Charlotte Sports Director what the Hornets might do with the pick.
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Nick: What are your thoughts on the class when it comes to the top four or five picks?
Rod: This is one of the deepest drafts in a while, especially compared to last year. At number four you can find someone that can help you and be a long-term fit, and hopefully not be a bust.
Nick: The next best pick besides Flagg seems to be Dylan Harper. Is there any way the Hornets could trade up for Harper?
Rod: It depends on if the Spurs believe if he can play in the same backcourt with De’Aaron Fox. If the Spurs feel like he’s the best player available and can fit in their scheme, they’re going to grab the guy. But if they think they’re one player away from a deep playoff run, maybe that pick is traded for somebody that can help me right now. The Hornets probably can’t get to No. 2 in my mind. You’ve got to give up way too much to get that.
Nick: What about Ace Bailey or VJ Edgecombe?
Rod: They have good things and have things to work on to be an elite NBA player. For Bailey it’s getting stronger so you can play inside and outside, and play all five spots. With Edgecombe, it seems like his defense is ahead of his offense. Defense is his thing, but if you’re the Hornets you need players like him. Defense is what coach Charles Lee preaches.
Nick: Could you see Kon Knueppel or Tre Johnson ending up on the Hornets at No. 4?
Rod: I could. The Hornets met with Tre at the draft combine last month, he’s on their radar. He’s a player that can come in here and score the ball. Knueppel is a Duke guy. He could fit here. The Hornets have so many different needs. When you’re a team like them, you want to get the best player available. You figure out how they fit in later on.
Contact Nick Carboni at ncarboni@wcnc.com and follow him on Facebook, X and Instagram.