NBA Draft: Five Draft Prospects the Charlotte Hornets Should Desire Most

Cole Anthony

UNC point guard Cole Anthony’s freshman season in 2019-20 was indicative of his team’s: a huge letdown.

As Anthony battled a knee injury that cost him 11 games, preseason #9 UNC finished last in the ACC with its first losing record under coach Roy Williams. Anthony’s injury, as well as his poor play upon return, was a huge contribution to that.

Anthony came into the season at the top of every draft board, a consensus top 3 pick. However, that has changed, as he is now typically projected in the 8-10 range.

Anthony managed to still put together averages of 18.5 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 4.0 assists, but the main concern is his decision making. Anthony shot only 38% from the field and averaged 3.5 turnovers.

So the question is, why would the Charlotte Hornets want an inefficient, unproven point guard, especially with Graham and Rozier already on the roster?

This is a valid question to ask. My answer is this: Anthony’s ceiling is significantly higher than both Graham and Rozier. Though he may be a work in progress, that type of talent does not fall to this pick range often.

Let’s be honest; the Hornets are not competing for a championship anytime soon. This gives Borrego plenty of time to develop Anthony. Should he reach any semblance of his full potential, he could easily become the Hornets’ best player.

If the pick lands in the 8-12 range, Anthony will likely be the only player remaining with true star potential. If available, the Hornets have to take him.