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Re-drafting the 2019 NBA Draft — 12. Nic Claxton, Charlotte Hornets

This may seem high for Nic Claxton, who has been buried in the Nets’ depth chart and played only sparingly at the highest levels of competition. That said, he’s due for a big third season, and could even start for Brooklyn when it’s all said and done. His skill set is uniquely suited to the modern NBA, and Charlotte stands out as a particularly strong fit.

Even after acquiring Mason Plumlee and Kai Jones this summer, the Hornets need some long-term depth in the frontcourt. With Washington off the board, Charlotte needs a versatile defender on the front line. Claxton profiles as a natural center, but he’s light on his feet, with the mobility to switch on the perimeter and contain guards in a pinch. When fully unleashed, Claxton can unleash hell on the defensive end, with deflections, blocks, and impressive on-ball defense in space.

Offensively, Claxton has much to prove. His minutes have been sparse in Brooklyn, but the basic tools are tantalizing. At Georgia, he would push the ball up court and create in transition. He’s an intelligent and aware passer, with the bounce and speed to knife through defenders to finish at the rim. He can operate as strictly a rim runner next to LaMelo Ball, or take on a more expansive role in the second unit. Either way, the Hornets’ up-tempo system suits him.