Charlotte Hornets: 3 NBA Draft prospects to watch during March Madness

3 of 4

Duke Blue Devils Vernon Carey Jr. (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images) /

2. Vernon Carey Jr. – Duke

The Hornets have not drafted a player from Duke since Gerald Henderson, but Vernon Carey Jr. has opened the eyes of some NBA teams. While the Hornets are owned by a former Tarheel, I’m sure that Michael Jordan can look past the Tobacco Road Rivalry to get some talent.

Carey has great size, and at 6’10, he still has the opportunity to grow even more. Duke has produced some productive frontcourt players in the past, and this prospect could be another great pickup.

While Carey has great size and length, this big man can run efficiently in transition. He’s an ideal prospect for a fast-paced team like the Hornets, and he will be able to show this off during the March tournaments.

Must Read. Charlotte Hornets struck gold with their 2019 NBA Draft Class. light

In just 30 games played this season, Carey has averaged 17.6 points and 8.7 rebounds per game. Carey has proved that he can score, while also providing production on defense by averaging 1.6 blocks per game.

What also makes Carey even more effective is his ability to shoot the ball well from behind the arc. So far this season, Carey has shot 40% from three, and he continues to get better with his shooting.

This smart player should assist his team in March, and Duke should continue to play well. March Madness should be a major asset for Carey’s draft stock moving forward.