Charlotte Hornets: Mitch Kupchak scouts Kevin Knox at pro day
Charlotte Hornets’ general manager, Mitch Kupchak, attended a pro day for potential lottery pick Kevin Knox.
Steve Kyler of BasketballInsiders.com posted a video on Twitter of Mitch Kupchak watching and recording Kevin Knox at the prospect’s pro day. The Charlotte Hornets‘ GM was personally on hand to scout the former Kentucky Wildcat. Kyler also mentioned that most of the teams in the top-15 sent a high-level executive to Knox’s pro day.
It’s unclear exactly who attended the event but Kupchak was a notable name. Kevin has already worked out for the Chicago Bulls, the New York Knicks, the Orlando Magic and the Cleveland Cavaliers. It will be interesting to see if Knox works out for the Hornets prior to the 2018 NBA Draft.
The 18-year old is expected to be a lottery pick this year with NBADraft.net projecting him to be selected by the Philadelphia 76ers at No. 10 just ahead of Charlotte who holds the 11th overall pick. NBADraft.net also compared Kevin to Tobias Harris and Paul George. NBAscoutinglive.com has Knox as the 12th ranked prospect in this year’s draft class.
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During his lone year under John Calipari, Kevin averaged 15.6 points per game, 5.4 rebounds, and 1.4 assists while shooting 44.5% from the field, 34.1% from three and 77.4% from the free throw line in 37 games with Kentucky. He led the Wildcats in scoring and three’s made while also being third on the team in rebounds. The Tampa, Florida native was one of 50 players named to the 2017-18 Preseason Wooden Award list.
Knox ranked second in the Southeastern Conference in minutes played, fourth in field goals made, sixth in defensive rebounds, fifth in points, 10th in points per game and eighth in points produced. He was arguably Kentucky’s best player and stood out as one of the best forward in this year’s draft.
Kevin is a combo forward who can play both the three and the four but is viewed as more of a small forward at the next level. Although, he could be a small-ball power forward as well. At 6’9 and 210 pounds with a 6’11.5″ wingspan, Knox has good size for a small forward.
If he’s available when the Hornets are on the clock, Kevin should get some serious consideration from Mitch Kupchak and company.
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Looking at Charlotte’s roster, they could use a scoring wing player like Knox. Mitch Kupchak clearly made it a point to get a closer look at Kevin before the draft by attending his pro day. The Hornets also attended Wendell Carter Jr.’s pro day.