2018 NBA Mock Draft: The summer is decision time

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander really raised his stock in the NCAA Tournament and has climbed firmly into the lottery. The freshman has an incredible feel for the game, an effective driving game and tons of defensive potential. However, he’s still not much of an outside shooter and there is plenty of room for his game to continue to develop.

The Hornets make an interesting scenario for his talents. Malik Monk has had a difficult rookie season but has been playing better of late. Gilgeous-Alexander might be a better long-term fit at shooting guard next to Kemba Walker, handling the defensive matchups with bigger backcourt players. He’d help Walker be more efficient with more opportunities off the ball and Monk becomes a do-everything third guard off the bench who spends time alongside both. Considering Gilgeous-Alexander’s talent, it’s a bet worth making.