The Charlotte Hornets emerged from the draft lottery as one of the biggest winners, landing the second overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft. With draft day two weeks away, there’s a growing sense about who the Hornets will pick.
Charlotte finds itself in an interesting position with the second pick. Scoot Henderson is viewed as the second-best player in the draft class, drawing NBA comparisons to Derrick Rose and Russell Westbrook.
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However, the Hornets have committed themselves to point guard LaMelo Ball with a vision of finding the best complementary pieces around him. As a result, Charlotte is reportedly poised to pass on Henderson when it’s on the clock.
According to Kevin O’Connor of The Ringer, there is a growing expectation around the NBA that the Hornets are leaning toward selecting Alabama Crimson Tide forward Brandon Miller with the second overall pick.
Miller, the SEC Player of the Year, has drawn NBA comparisons to Paul George. The 6-foot-9 forward offers a dependable shot from the perimeter, provides positional versatility and shows a knack for creating his own shot.
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While Miller was involved in one off-court issue at Alabama, it hasn’t influenced how NBA executives view his character. Charlotte reportedly sent officials to Alabama to look further into Miller, with no apparent red flags.
If Miller is drafted by Charlotte, the Portland Trail Blazers will have the option of either drafting Henderson or trading the pick for a high-end wing. Given the limited options available for trade, though, it’s very possible the Trail Blazers ultimately pair Henderson with Damian Lillard.
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