Charlotte Hornets NBA Draft: 5 defenders to target with the 11th pick

Jaden Springer – Age: 18, Tennessee – Guard

Tennessee’s Jaden Springer enters the NBA Draft as one of the more raw prospects in this class, however, his defensive ability is one of, if not the main reason scouts are looking at him as a potential lottery pick.

Springer excels at the point of attack. He’s got the length and strength that allow him to get into his opponent’s space, slide and stay with them and positively affect the shot. Springer spent a lot of time guarding the opposing team’s main ball-handler, and projects as a player who should likely be able to do so at the NBA level.

He’s a well-rounded athlete, so he’s able to compete and defend well against multiple positions. Realistically, expect him to be able to guard 1-3 at the NBA level and he may not be a pushover if switched onto a 4, depending on who it is.

Springer’s got a high effort and motor on the defensive end which you love to see from a prospect as young as him. As simple as that sounds, not a lot of guys give 100% on the defensive end. These players are highly sought after so having this mindset on the defensive end of the court can make you a lot of money in the NBA.

Charlotte already has a solid guard rotation in place with LaMelo Ball, Terry Rozier, Devonte’ Graham, and Malik Monk, it’s highly unlikely that Springer could immediately see a ton of minutes as a rookie but he could be a solid defensive bridge in that rotation that lacks any sort of defensive prowess.