Charlotte Hornets 2015 NBA season preview
Draft Picks
The Hornets held just one pick in each round of the 2015 NBA Draft, but desperately needed to hit on a player who could come in and contribute immediately with the No. 9 overall pick (they also traded their second round pick, as well). After selections like Cody Zeller and Noah Vonleh, who contributed very little after being selected in the lottery by Charlotte, a player who could make an impact was key for the Hornets.
They ultimately landed on former Wisconsin Badgers big man Frank Kaminsky, who had led his team to two consecutive Final Fours in college before entering the draft.
PF/C. Wisconsin Badgers. FRANK KAMINSKY. C. <p>The addition of Kaminsky makes a great deal of sense on paper for the Hornets because of what he offers on the offensive end of the floor. He’s a talented big man who can score from all over the floor, including stepping out and knocking down jumpers from long-range. That type of stretch-four playing alongside Al Jefferson could be a great asset to have in the Hornets offense for the coming years and Kaminsky’s game is polished enough for him to see playing time right away.</p> <p>The problem with Kaminsky, though, is two-fold. For one, his upside is incredibly limited. He’s talented and should be able to contribute now, but he’s already at or near his ceiling as a player. That’s worrisome for a small-market franchise like the Hornets. Moreover, it’s another selection of a big man in the lottery when this team could use definite help on the wings, a problem only exacerbated by the MKG injury.</p> <p>When the Hornets selected Frank The Tank, guys like Justise Winslow and Devin Booker were still left on the board, players with more upside who also happen to fill a more pressing need for Charlotte. This isn’t totally Kaminsky’s fault, but it’s hard to be too high on him as an addition to Charlotte given all of that.</p>
Next: Offseason Additions/Subtractions