We’re another day closer to the NBA Draft, and with each passing week a new prospect seems to slide to the Charlotte Hornets in the latest mock drafts. ESPN draft analyst Jeremy Woo believes Charlotte may ultimately have to stay put at picks No. 14 and No. 18, citing the overall strength and depth of this year’s class in his newest projection.
With the NBA Draft Combine now wrapped up, several prospects boosted their stock after standout performances, further reinforcing the perception among evaluators that the 2026 class is one of the strongest in recent years.
Jeremy Woo’s latest mock draft gives the stark reality for the Hornets
In Woo’s latest mock, the Hornets select Karim Lopez at No. 14 and Hannes Steinbach at No. 18. But the biggest takeaway isn’t just the names—it’s Woo’s explanation Charlotte’s draft choices intersected with roster needs:
“The Hornets have two first-round picks and could opt to make both as they continue building through the draft. Moving up with No. 14 and 18 might be a challenge considering the strength of this draft, but Charlotte has some flexibility to maneuver using its picks. Adding to the frontcourt seems to be their primary area of need.”
Woo is correct that the frontcourt needs to be addressed. Grabbing a defensive anchor would be ideal at the No. 14 pick, but Lopez and Steinbach bring different types of value to the team.
Lopez has numerous years of experience playing in the NBL and has an NBA-ready frame. Steinbach looks like a walking double-double who won’t shy away from shooting beyond the arc.
Jeff Peterson shouldn’t feel obligated to make any impulsive moves on draft night. He can opt to stay put and take multiple shots in the first round.
All roads lead to Rome right?
The Hornets will need to follow the OKC Thunder blueprint to find success
If Charlotte can’t climb the draft board for a true difference‑maker, their fallback becomes clear: keep the picks and follow the Sam Presti playbook. Maintaining patience, developing players through the draft, and making good value trades will be the process a few teams try to emulate.
The Hornets could absolutely choose to stay on this path, and there’s a very real argument that the current process is working exactly as intended. Progress doesn’t always require a dramatic, all‑in gamble. Sometimes the smartest move is trusting the foundation you’ve already built.
Without making a risky, franchise‑altering swing, Charlotte still managed to more than double its win total from the previous season. That kind of leap doesn’t happen by accident. It’s the product of internal development and roster continuity.
And if you want to strengthen the case even further, this draft class gives them every reason to stay patient. It’s widely viewed as one of the deeper groups in recent years, meaning legitimate, high‑upside prospects will still be available in the range of their picks.
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