by 10.New Orleans Pelicans: Corey Kispert, Gonzaga, Senior)
The New Orleans Pelicans could definitely use some floor spacing to accompany the paint dominating front court of Zion Williamson and Steven Adams and they can look to Corey Kispert who is widely regarded as the best shooter in the draft.
During his successful four year stint at Gonzaga, the sharpshooter displayed impressive range and shot making ability from all areas of the floor. Initially just a spot up shooter early in his career, Kispert has shown that he is now able to attack closeouts and put the ball on the floor to either pull up for a better shot or drive to the basket.
At 6’7”, he can pose as a size mismatch for most two guards as he is able to use his frame to comfortably get to his spots and isn’t afraid to compete on the offensive glass for put backs.
Coming in as a 22 year-old rookie, many may see Kispert as too high for the Pelicans as his upside is pretty limited. However, Kispert’s experience, winning attitude, and skill set tailor made for the NBA will prove to be invaluable to a young New Orleans team that must put their young core of Zion Williamson, Brandon Ingram and Lonzo Ball in position to win now.
11.Charlotte Hornets: Keon Johnson (Tennessee, Freshman, Guard/Forward)
After recording a record breaking 48” vertical leap at this past draft combine, Keon Johnson could entice the Hornets to give Lamelo Ball another high flying transition threat with massive upside. At 6’5” 185 lbs, Johnson has the ability to play the 2,3 and maybe some small ball 4 down the line as his athleticism and toughness on the defensive end allows him to play bigger than he actually is.
More of an athlete than anything at this point, Johnson did show some positive glimpses offensively where the majority of his points came from smart cuts, backdoor lobs and mid range jump shots. He’s even shown some capability as a facilitator off of screens, making the right reads and throwing accurate passes to rollers.
Johnson’s calling card will be on the defensive end where he stands out as a live body on the perimeter and a threat to block shots as rotation help. However, he must become more disciplined on this end as he can be over eager at times and pick up quick fouls.
Johnson is highly reminiscent of Charlotte’s Miles Bridges with his elite athleticism and much like his counterpart, he needs to refine his jumpshot to become a better three point shooter and improve his ball handling ability in the half court.
Despite this, the Charlotte Hornets can find value in the high flyer as he’ll be able to fit into many different lineups given positional versatility.
