No. 2: Zylan Cheatham (Arizona State)
Just like Davis, Cheatham really stood out at the NBA G-League Elite Camp. He wasn’t invited to the Draft Combine, but that’s fine, because he made a big impression and made a name for himself. If he goes undrafted, he is someone that multiple teams will look at.
Cheatham began his college career at San Diego State, but ended up at Arizona State this past season. He was a major force, averaging an impressive 12.1 points, 10.3 rebounds, 3.2 assists and just under one block per game. He even had a triple-double in a game against Texas Southern.
His defense will translate to the next level. He has good size and length, and is able to move around well on the perimeter, which is important in the NBA. So many big men get switched onto guards, and he’ll have the ability to stay in front.
Charlotte’s biggest weakness last season may have been on the defensive end of the court. He won’t solve all of those problems, and probably wouldn’t play much as a rookie, but he has upside, and if he’s developed the right way, I can see him being a rotation player in the NBA.
There’s certainly a chance that Cheatham gets picked in the second round, and maybe the Hornets should consider him at that point. But if he doesn’t get picked, he’ll receive strong interest around the league.