NBA 2020 Mock Draft 1.0 – Options abound for OKC Thunder
By Rylan Stiles
6. player. 170. . Center | Duke. Charlotte Hornets. Vernon Carey Jr.
The Hornets have laid the foundation, and now it is time to round out the starting lineup.
Again, a ton of people considers this a weak NBA Draft class. However, there are still impactful players, players that will be involved in your winning core. Sure, they might not be the only reason you win, and won’t turn your franchise all the way around, but in the case of Vernon Carey Jr., he sure can help.
The Hornets turn in a lineup full of young guards and wings as they were well represented in the NBA Rising Stars Challenge. From second round wonder, Devonte’ Graham, to highly-touted lottery pick Miles Bridges. The Hornets lack a big man down low, and Carry Jr. could solidify this young group and turn them into legitimate contenders (for the 8th seed in the East).
The 6’10 big man has been able to put up 17 points and eight rebounds so far this year, including flashes of playmaking with almost two assists per contest.
The Duke Blue Devil has per 40-minute numbers of almost 40 points per game, nearly 20 rebounds per contest, and almost two blocks and steals per contest. He makes his presence felt down low.
An anchor on both ends of the floor would be just what the doctor ordered for the Hornets. Not a flash pick, not a franchise saver, but it sure up that starting lineup and makes the Hornets a playoff contender.
At just 18 years old, Vernon Carey has the age that appeals to NBA front offices. He is still so raw and has a ton of upside. If he gets into the right situation they can mold him into an all-star caliber player.