2014 NBA Mock Draft: An in-depth look at both rounds
By Joe Nardone
Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports
24. Charlotte Hornets — Shabazz Napier, CHAMPION (PG), UConn
H: 6′ 1″ W: 175 lbs DOB: 07/14/1991
2013-14 NCAA (40 GP) 18.0 PPG 5.9 RPG 4.9 APG 25.9 PER
I like Shabazz Napier going here to Charlotte to play and learn from former teammate Kemba Walker as it could allow Walker to play off the ball and score more, so Napier will be able to afford yummies at all hours of the day as good value for the 24th pick.
Napier can clearly score, handles the ball terrifically and showed the ability to create his own shot at the college level. He also shot over .40 percent from three, which is a great attribute to have to help spread the floor to compliment Walker and Al Jefferson.
I’m not sure how well his ability to get buckets will translate to the next level, but his floor is a little bit higher than he is ever given credit for. Plus, a pick at 24 whose worst case scenario calls for him to be an incredibly competent backup point guard is not a bad deal. I do think he will end up being better than that, though. — Joe