3 Perfect Fits for Hornets' No. 6 Pick in NBA Draft

The Charlotte Hornets need to nail their lottery pick in the 2024 NBA Draft to take a significant step forward next season.
Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports
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The Charlotte Hornets missed the playoffs once again after a disappointing season that resulted in parting ways with head coach Steve Clifford. Now, there are new owners, new general manager, and a new head coach in Charlotte heading into next season.

The first thing the new decision-makers need to tackle is the 2024 NBA Draft. For a young, rebuilding team like the Hornets, making the right decision in the draft is the most important aspect of team building.

This will be an even bigger challenge this year because this draft class is considered one of the weakest in recent memory. There aren't too many prospects who are thought to have superstar upside. However, a few players always make an unexpected jump to star status. The Hornets should try to find one of them instead of worrying about NBA readiness or the fit with other players on the roster. Here are the three players they should be targeting with their No. 6 pick.

Matas Buzelis, SF

Buzelis was a five-star recruit out of high school and was widely considered to be one of the best players in the country. He chose the professional route after high school, spending last season with NBA's G League Ignite.

In 26 games with the Ignite, Buzelis averaged 14.3 points, 6.9 rebounds, 1.9 assists, and 2.1 blocks per game with 44.5% from the field and 27.3% from three.

As his stat line demonstrates, Buzelis' calling card is his versatility. With a 6'10 frame and an impressive wingspan, Buzelis looks like the prototypical modern NBA forward. He can do a little bit of everything; dribble, pass, and shoot while displaying a good feel for the game.

Buzelis is still a work in progress but his physical tools combined with his skill set make him a very intriguing prospect. He is one of the few players in this draft class that has star upside due to the rarity of his tools.