Mitch Kupchak held a press conference in the wake of last night’s NBA draft, during which he answered questions regarding the Charlotte Hornets’ selection of Duke center Mark Williams with the 15th pick. Since the Hornets’ trade of Jalen Duren had not yet been finalized, Kupchak was unable to speak specifically about that deal. However, Kupchak did provide some insight into how the Hornets’ draft board shook out, as he stated that Williams was the highest-rated big man on their board.
Kupchak "Of the three bigs he's (Mark Williams) the guy we had ranked number 1"
— James Plowright (@British_Buzz) June 24, 2022
Williams reportedly had an encouraging workout with the Hornets, while fellow big man prospect Duren and his camp cancelled their workout with Charlotte. Kupchak spoke glowingly of Williams from both a tangible and intangible standpoint.
Mitch Kupchak on Mark Williams: "It's an area we need help in. We hope he continues to develop at a rapid pace. He gives us great size -- rim protection, good athlete, great length. Great kid. Works hard. Should get better."
— Scott Fowler (@scott_fowler) June 24, 2022
By taking Williams and trading away Duren, Charlotte appears to have shown that Williams was their preferred target all along.
While he may lack Duren’s upside, Williams is older and could be ready to contribute more quickly for a team that is looking to move into “win-now” mode. There is reason for optimism for Williams; namely, his 72% field goal percentage, his 73% free throw percentage, and his ACC-leading 2.8 blocks per game. By comparison, Mason Plumlee recorded these numbers a season ago; 64% field goal percentage, 39% free throw percentage, and 0.7 blocks per game.
Kupchak was forthright about the need to bolster the center spot, saying that it is ” … an area we need help in”.
#Hornets GM Mitch Kupchak on drafting C Mark Williams: “It’s an area we need help in. We’re hopeful he continues to develop at a rapid pace.”
— Nick Carboni (@NickCarboniWCNC) June 24, 2022
Williams has at least one new fan already, as LaMelo Ball took to Instagram to show his excitement for his new running mate.
LaMelo approves of the Mark Williams pick pic.twitter.com/VSdkhirqc8
— At The Hive (@At_The_Hive) June 24, 2022
In a February interview with Franklyn Calle of Slam Magazine, LaMelo spoke about the need to upgrade the center position, saying ” … I just feel we’re like a big away. One that can clog up the whole paint, rebound”.
Williams can certainly provide the lane-clogging center that Ball alluded to, as he has both the greatest standing reach (9’8″) and wingspan (7’7″) in Duke history. He also has the skillset to become a dependable rebounder at the next level, as he finished sixth in the ACC in rebounds per game and played fewer minutes per game than any of the players ahead of him. As is typical for rookies, adding the necessary strength to hold his own against NBA centers will be the key for Williams, a point that Kupchak made mention of. Charlotte could use the help on the glass, as they were 27th in rebound percentage and 29th in defensive rebound percentage a season ago.
Kupchak on Mark Williams cont: "He needs a lot of work in getting stronger... He's a good rebounder. I wouldn't say he's going to be a rebound monster right now."
— Scott Fowler (@scott_fowler) June 24, 2022
If Williams can be the solution to the Hornets’ essential roster question, then Kupchak and company will be proven right in their decision during Thursday night’s draft.