NBA Draft 2020: Mock Draft 3.0

The Hornets need a center and Onyeka Okongwu is the best available. Despite a slightly undersized frame at 6-foot-9, Okongwu has separated himself as arguably the top big man in this class. He’s not only a tantalizing defender, but he’s a supremely efficient offensive player. He should fit nicely next to Charlotte’s potpourri of perimeter talent.

Okongwu flew under the radar as a freshman, but quickly established himself as one of college basketball’s most dominant middle men. He controlled the paint, using his impressive vertical explosiveness to protect the rim and deter drives to the rim. On offense, he thrived as a rim-runner and lob-catcher.

In the modern NBA, it’s important for centers to survive outside the paint on defense. Okongwu has the lateral quickness to keep smaller players in front of him. He may not have the star upside of James Wiseman, but he fits an immensely valuable archetype as his position.