Charlotte Hornets 2019 NBA Mock Draft Vol. 3: Full Two-Round Projections

I might be the first person in the world putting Sekou Doumbouya as high as fifth overall in this draft, but I feel good about it. Doumbouya is an intriguing prospect from France who has seen his draft stock improve in recent weeks. At this point, it would be surprising to see him fall outside of the top 10 picks.

Cleveland has long been rumored to be enamored with R.J. Barrett, but they will likely have to trade up in order to get him. The Cavaliers have also been rumored to potentially make a surprise pick at fifth overall, and Doumbouya would surprise a lot of people if he were to be picked that high.

Doumbouya possesses physical tools that will attract a lot of suitors before the draft. He has great size and length at 6’9″, he’s very athletic, runs like a deer and defends very well on the perimeter. He’s going to have to get stronger and work on his jump shot, but Doumbouya has massive upside.

Cleveland is rebuilding the right way. They understand that this is going to be a multi-year process, so they are stockpiling on young players and assets, while mostly focusing on player development throughout the way. Doumbouya fits right in to what they are trying to accomplish.

Doumbouya averaged just 7.8 points and 3.3 rebounds in France this past season, but teams are going to look at him as a project and work with him diligently. If he turns out good, we’re looking at a potential All-Star.