Charlotte Hornets: Swarm and Sting 2021 NBA Mock Draft

A true scoring specialist, Cameron Thomas would be a solid immediate-impact selection for the Lakers. With Dennis Schroder appearing likely to depart, Thomas could help alleviate some of the scoring burdens from LeBron James and Anthony Davis. His playmaking and decision-making could stand to improve, but Thomas projects to at least be a serviceable scorer from the beginning. -Evan Birchmore

Jaden Springer isn’t a standout athlete, but as an 18-year-old who scored efficiently, shot well, and played outstanding defense, he’s a good upside pick at this spot in the draft. He has a great motor and the savvy of a much older player. I see a middle-of-the-road outcome for him as similar to fellow Tennessee alumnus Josh Richardson, but he’s still young enough to grow. It’s not unreasonable to think he could become a reliable, big-bodied starter at combo guard in the vein of Malcolm Brogdon or Marcus Smart. -Josh Flenniken

Joshua Primo is another upside pick with a relatively high floor thanks to his ability to hit movement threes on high volume. He compares favorably to the 76ers rookie sharpshooter Isaiah Joe, but his solid wingspan and good quickness make him a 3 and D candidate who might have a little more to give on offense. He wasn’t terrifying SEC defenses off the dribble, but he showcased enough that it’s worth seeing what he can do with more development and opportunity. Plus, he’s another 18-year-old with plenty of room for growth—both physically and fundamentally. -Josh Flenniken

The Clippers are still in search of a true lead guard to organize the sometimes chaotic and isolation-heavy offense centered around Paul George and Kawhi Leonard. While Cooper is currently a deficient jump-shooter, his free throw numbers are an encouraging sign he’ll develop there over time. He’s undersized, which negatively impacts his ability to finish through contact, especially his defensive potential. However, Cooper’s ability and confidence as a passer and floor general might be the best in this class, and just what the Clippers need to create easier offense and take some of the scoring burdens off of George and Leonard if it translates. His quickness and creativity give him potential as a scorer off the bench next to Terrance Mann as well. -Josh Flenniken

The Denver Nuggets hands down were the best team in the NBA until Jamal Murray tore the ACL in his left knee in April. Murray missed the rest of the season and hopes of winning an NBA Championship. Although the Nuggets beat the Portland Trail Blazers 4-2 in the first round, Denver was no match for the eventual Western Conference Champion Phoenix Suns in the second round, getting swept 4-0.

This pick is all about adding depth at the point guard position as Murray battles back from a major injury. Florida’s Tre Mann is a shot-making point guard who can contribute immediately in a backup role. He has a good shooting touch from all over the floor, and this past season improved as a passer. He has the size, shooting touch, and passing ability that will fit perfectly in the Nuggets’ offense. -Shawn Simmons