FanSided Network 2018 NBA Mock Draft

To me, Miles Bridges is the best player available at this point in the draft and is the perfect fir for the Hornets. Although he may not have the highest ceiling of the prospects still left on the board, he does have the highest floor. Charlotte’s missed on a number of their lottery picks in the last decade so Mitch Kupchak has to draft a proven player over a prospect with potential. Bridges showcased his game over the past two years under Tom Izzo who is one of the best coaches in college basketball.

Although Miles doesn’t have incredible length, measuring in at only 6-foot-6 with a 6-foot-9 wingspan, he is still a pretty good defender. He is also a good rebounder for his size. His athleticism and ability to create his own shot are by far his best attributes. Both should translate well to the NBA. With that being said, he still needs to work on his ball-handling and post game at the next level but playing alongside Kemba Walker and Dwight Howard should help take the attention off of Bridges and help him develop comfortably.

The Hornets lacked consistent scoring from their wing players last season and Miles fills a need for them at small forward as Michael Kidd-Gilchrist hasn’t panned out as they would’ve hoped over his first six seasons in the league. He could immediately slide into the starting lineup for them and he is also versatile enough to play as a small ball four. MKG’s limited shooting range has stunted Charlotte’s offense and Bridges’ ability to stretch the floor would add a new wrinkle to their attack. It would also create space for Kemba and Dwight to work inside. Spacing has been an issue for the Hornets and drafting Miles should help to change that.

— Jerry Stephens

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