Charlotte Hornets: 2021 NBA Mock Draft 1.0, first-round picks for all 30 teams
Round 1 – Picks 6 through 8
Jalen Green is a perfect option for the New Orleans Pelicans moving forward. The Pelicans have not had the season they’ve wanted, and a lot of that has to do with the lack of bench production. JJ Redick will not be with them for much longer, so it’s time to get someone who can take over the shooting guard spot.
Green is a great scorer that can turn into their starting two-guard. He can score from anywhere on the court and has turned a lot of heads during the G-League scrimmages. Green is an exciting player that Pelicans’ fans need to keep an eye on.
The New York Knicks can pick up one of the biggest steals in the draft if they target Jonathan Kuminga. Just like Green, he’s coming from the G-League and can score from a variety of areas on the court. If the Knicks want someone who can start next RJ Barrett, then Kuminga is their guy.
Kuminga has great strength and size; he can drive to the rim and really make it hard on defenders to guard his inside shot. Kuminga could be a huge prospect to check out if you’re watching any G-League games.
The Oklahoma City Thunder have two lottery picks because they own the Miami Heat’s pick in addition to their own. Ziaire Williams is a great pickup for the Thunder if they are seeking to get a full-time starter at small forward. The Thunder have gone through many changes at small forward over the past five years, but it’s time to lock down a solid option for this position.
Williams is an effective scorer who’s averaged 12.5 points and 5.7 rebounds per game. He can score from multiple areas, but Williams should look at improving his field goal percentage. With a little more muscle, Williams could become dominant when driving to the rim.