Charlotte Hornets: 2021 NBA Mock Draft 1.0, first-round picks for all 30 teams

Oklahoma State Cowboys Cade Cunningham. Mandatory Credit: Rob Ferguson-USA TODAY Sports
Oklahoma State Cowboys Cade Cunningham. Mandatory Credit: Rob Ferguson-USA TODAY Sports /
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Charlotte Hornets, Scottie Barnes
Florida St. Scottie Barnes. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images) /

Round 1 – Pick 5: Oklahoma City Thunder

Florida State. 5. 149. Scouting Report. Pick Analysis. G. Scottie Barnes. player

With more depth needed in their backcourt, the Thunder would do well if they select Scottie Barnes from Florida State. The Thunder need some player depth so they can develop starters; Barnes can be this guy for them because of his all-around skill set.

Barnes has averaged 10.3 points, 4.1 assists, and 3.8 rebounds per game. He can do everything on offense and can shoot from anywhere on the court. Barnes excels with his two-point shots, but he needs to improve his outside shot, as he’s shooting 30% from deep.

Because of his size, Barnes can play both guard spots, small forward, and even some minutes at power forward. He has a large frame like Ben Simmons and has proved that he can score at will in the paint. Barnes should be considered as a point-forward.

The Thunder are the 25th worst scoring team in the league, and they need to look at improving this. The only star on the team currently is Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, and he needs help. Barnes could help manage the offense with Gilgeous-Alexander. If developed right, both could have some strong chemistry on offense.

Barnes’ defense has also been good for Florida State, as he’s averaged 1.3 steals per game. His length allows him to find the ball on defense and go up to grab rebounds.

The Thunder are in desperate need of more players that can play well on both sides of the court. Barnes could solve many of their offensive issues and could help them get back to their winning ways.