NBA Draft 2020: Mock Draft 1.0

The Hornets have a hole at center, and while it has become increasingly risky to draft bigs this high in the draft, James Wiseman has the pedigree and the potential to tempt a high-lottery team. The Hornets’ recent draft history is pretty solid, but it’s not the most trustworthy front office either.

In Wiseman, the Hornets get a hulking presence — he’s 7-foot-1 with a 7-foot-6 wingspan, decent lateral quickness, and a mature physique. He should have little issue on offense, where his touch, size, and athleticism are often fruitful.

Defense is the main concern for Wiseman. He should be an elite rim protector who can defend in space, but his poor instincts, bad technique, and tendency to lose focus are issues Charlotte will need to address. He’s bound to draw Deandre Ayton comparisons, fair or not.