Re-Drafting the 2013 NBA Draft

<p><strong>Original pick: Shane Larkin (traded to Dallas)</strong></p> <p>In retrospect, it seems kind of wild that Cody Zeller was a top-five pick. Some of that can be explained away by a relatively poor draft class and a high-profile college situation at Indiana, but Zeller’s game was always far more likely to pop in a supporting role than that of a leading man.</p> <p>The former Hoosier has been a solid contributor across his three NBA seasons, peaking in 2015-2016 with a 16.1 PER and a very strong 59.2 percent true shooting. As an “energy” player, Zeller is quite efficient in finishing around the rim, and while he isn’t an elite rebounder by any stretch, the 7-footer isn’t a liability in that area either.</p> <p>Unfortunately, Zeller does not fit the mold perfectly in terms of a rim-protecting center, as he struggles to block and deter shots when compared to other players at the position. That, at least in part, has led to Charlotte investing in another young big man (Frank Kaminsky) in the draft, and even with the Hornets appearing to like Zeller’s game, there is something left to be desired.</p> <p>Cody Zeller’s destiny is probably to serve as a solid role player for a decade in the NBA and there is nothing wrong with that… unless it comes with the number four overall pick. This is a more appropriate placement.</p>. PF/C. Indiana. Cody Zeller. 18. player. 125