A Look at Emoni Bates and the Charlotte Hornets 2023 Draft Prospects

Jalen Slawson (Furman)

Jalen Slawson is a pure athlete. Once he gets going downhill, there is virtually no stopping him. The 23-year-old 6’7 forward out of Furman has become quite the weapon throughout the course of his college career.

Furman averaged just 0.7 points per game during his Freshman year of college and finished his career averaging 15.6 points per game as a senior (stats via ESPN). What’s even more impressive about Slawson’s growth is that he shot an astonishing 55.6% from the field this past season.

Additionally, Slawson shot 39.4% from beyond the arc on just 2.9 attempts per game. Slawson’s ability to get to the rim is undeniable. Although he doesn’t have an amazing handle, his sheer strength will clear his path to the cup.

On the defensive end, Slawson averaged 1.5 blocks per game and 1.5 steals per game as well. His ability to cause chaos on the defensive end makes up for his awkward fit into defensive schemes.

Slawson won’t really be able to guard larger forwards or centers at the NBA level and is a bit too slow to keep up with guards on the perimeter. He is still a serviceable defender due to his size, strength, and athleticism, but you have to wonder what type of players he can match up with at the next level.

If he is able to develop his shot-creating ability and a more reliable three-point shot, Slawson could be a valuable player at the next level.