Sports Illustrated’s Jeremy Wu recently put together a 2022 NBA mock draft in which the Hornets take Memphis center Jalen Duren 13th overall and Ohio State guard Malaki Branham 15th overall.
Find out what Jeremy had to say about each pick below.
Galen Doreen
Charlotte’s protracted search for a long-term position to pair with the LaMelo ball may finally end in this draft, and it’s likely that at least one Duren or Mark Williams will have them in the pick. Although Duren is more of a traditional bigfoot, he’s quite physically gifted and has some oomph as a long-term center worth developing, particularly as one of the youngest players in the draft. It’s a solid jump with a mature frame, good hands and feet, and some untapped latent skills. Teams have always expressed concerns about his inconsistent movement and sometimes questionable instincts, but the Hornets’ need for a position creates more impetus to take that leap.
Regal Branham
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If the Hornets are able to get a big batch with their first pick, it might make sense to shop #15 to try to get back to the draft and pick up the value. If they stay here, Branham’s youth and bullet-making prowess is an interesting option. It would be a luxury for Charlotte, who should try to find minutes for James Bucknight next season, but Branham could also be someone another team would target at this spot if he is available. He’s a little small for the winger and not too explosive, but he’s cunning and clever, and he’s built so much momentum for a player that he’s not being described as a single player to have entered the season. If Branham doesn’t sneak into the lottery, he shouldn’t fall much more than that.
My analysis: I love both of these choices for Hornets. If Charlotte can stay put and not trade her off for Doreen, that would be a win-win for everyone. I don’t know if I see a scenario where Doreen stays on the board at number 13. If no one plans to take him from 1 to 12, someone behind Charlotte can trade to jump in front of them.
Getting Branham in 15th would be a steal in my opinion. He’s been one of the biggest climbers in the draft over the past month and despite James Bucknight’s presence, it would be tough to take him to Branham if he’s still available. If he’s not on the board, I’d expect Charlotte to go with a versatile/large suite like Tarry Eason or Jeremy Suchan.
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