11. Charlotte Hornets: Donovan Mitchell, Louisville Cardinals
Ultimate Upside Comparison: Avery Bradley
Safe Upside Comparison: George Hill
Position: Shooting Guard
Age: 20 (9/7/1996)
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 6’3″, 211 pounds, 6’10”
2016-17 Slash Line: .408/.354/.806
2016-17 Season Averages: 32.3 MPG, 15.6 PPG, 4.9 RPG, 2.7 APG, 2.1 SPG, 2.4 3PM
The Charlotte Hornets need nothing more than a player who can alleviate offensive pressure from All-Star point guard Kemba Walker. Walker has proven to be a legitimate star in the NBA, but Charlotte is without a second player who can consistently create their own shot in the half court.
With upside comparisons to Boston Celtics guard Avery Bradley, Louisville Cardinals star Donovan Mitchell could be the answer for Steve Clifford.
Mitchell is 6’3″, but he has a 6’10” wingspan, a 211-pound frame, and elite athleticism. He boasts a 36.5″ no-step vert, a 40.5″ max vertical leap, and tested faster in the three quarter sprint (3.01 seconds) than Derrick Rose (3.05), John Wall (3.14), and Russell Westbrook (3.08).
With Mitchell and Walker interchangeably running the offense, the Hornets could overwhelm teams in transition and maintain a similar balance when games slow down.
Mitchell is an effective 3-point shooter and a capable pick and roll facilitator, which creates his offensive upside. He’ll need to improve his ability to drive left, but his lockdown potential on defense would create a sense of patience.
If Steve Clifford can help Mitchell tap into his full potential, the Hornets could complete the construction of one of the best backcourts in the NBA.
The New York Knicks are weighing their options in hopes of potentially trading up for Mitchell.