Andrew Buller-Russ
Even though the Charlotte Hornets didn’t win the lottery, earning the chance to select generational talent Victor Wembanyama first overall, having the chance to land the next-best prospect still comes with a lot of excitement.
Just like we saw in 2020, when the Hornets selected LaMelo Ball with the third overall pick, Charlotte has a chance to add a player who has a chance to quickly become a franchise cornerstone for years to come. For a team that hasn’t reached the postseason since 2016, getting this pick right could be the difference between becoming a contender and repeating as a lotto team next year.
The Hornets know this, which is why they’re working nonstop to try and identify the next-best prospect after Wembanyama. According to Roderick Boone of The Charlotte Observer, signs point to the Hornets deciding between guard Scoot Henderson or forward Brandon Miller.
Related: Top 100 NBA Draft prospects of 2023: From Victor Wembanyama to Nikos Rogkavopoulos
Unlike the top pick, there is no consensus No. 2 prospect, but Henderson and Miller are among those most commonly linked to the second pick. Henderson measures 6-foot-2 and would appear to clash with Ball as a lead ball-handler, but the former G League Ignite star insists he’s just as comfortable playing off the ball, too. Being that Portland holds the third pick, if Henderson isn’t Charlotte’s choice, he may have to end up alongside Damian Lillard anyway.
Meanwhile, Miller is the 6-foot-9 wing the Hornets have been seeking. He scores with ease, adds more in the rebounding column, and can defend multiple positions. Yet, Henderson has just as much upside and could even be the better overall player. No matter what, the Hornets have a tough decision to make later this month.
Related: Charlotte Hornets draft preview: 5 NBA Draft targets
