Onyeka Okongwu
Onyeka Okongwu has a lot to offer, and he still has the potential to make a lot of NBA teams very happy. As a 6’9 center, he still has the potential to grow a few more inches before he goes into the NBA.
What Okongwu lacks in size, he makes up for it with his strength and athleticism. With his strength, Okongwu is able to finish well through contact, making him an effective scorer in the paint.
Okongwu is currently averaging 16.4 points and 8.9 rebounds per game for USC. As a center, he has a good shooting form that should translate well into the NBA.
One of the most exciting aspects of Okongwu’s game is his ability to play defense in the paint. So far this season, he has averaged 3.0 blocks per game, proving how dominant of a shot-blocker he is.
Just like Cody Zeller, Okongwu is a center that gives all of his effort when he’s on the court. His effort may be taken into high consideration by Mitch Kupchak since he needs motivated players for his rebuild.
Okongwu reminds me of a better version of Bismack Biyombo that can play offense and defense better. Okongwu’s play for the rest of the season should determine where he’s taken in the draft.
There are a lot of great prospects in this year’s draft, but these players have a high chance of being taken by Charlotte if they get a high enough pick. I expect their draft stocks to change as we head into March Madness.