Ranking the Charlotte Hornets last eight first-round draft picks
4. Malik Monk (2017 Draft)
In the 2017 NBA Draft, the Hornets selected Malik Monk. Monk was sought out to be drafted earlier than he was, but he fell enough in the draft, that he landed with the Hornets. He had a great, but short collegiate career with the Kentucky Wildcats.
During his rookie campaign, he has so far averaged 5.3 points and 1.2 assists per game. The rookie has not played a whole lot this season, but during a game in October, he went off against the Milwaukee Bucks and scored a career-high of twenty-seven points. With more playing time, Monk could become an even better player for Charlotte.
If Monk could improve his shot consistency and his perimeter defense, he could be in the running for the starting shooting guard spot in the future. For him to do this, he would have to win the position battle against a streaking Jeremy Lamb, and or any pending free agent that’s comes to Charlotte. It is important to note that this would only happen if Batum were released, or if he was moved to the three spot.
On another note, Monk has shown great handles as the backup point guard for the team. It is possible that he could be in the running for the team’s number one option at the backup point spot behind Kemba Walker.
3. Frank Kaminsky (2015 Draft)
Frank Kaminsky was drafted at the ninth spot in the NBA draft. Early in his career with Charlotte, Kaminsky showed a lot that he had potential, but he was not very consistent. He has been coming off the bench every year he has been with the Hornets and has gotten a few starts with the team.
As a Hornet, Kaminsky has so far averaged 10 points and 4.1 rebounds per game. After the all-star break of this year, Kaminsky has turned into a whole different player. He has become a huge threat off the bench. Since the all-star break, he has also averaged about 82% from the free throw line.
If Kaminsky’s consistency continues to improve, it is possible that Frank will replace Marvin Williams soon for the starting four spot. Kaminsky has already proved so far that he could handle his self as a starter. It is important also to note that Kaminsky will be entering a contract year following this season.