10 players most likely to succeed from 2023 NBA Draft

8: Jordan Hawkins (Connecticut) – New Orleans Pelicans

From national champion to 14th overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft, Jordan Hawkins has made his presence known nationally.

The 6-foot-5 sharpshooter averaged 16.2 points, 3.8 rebounds, shot 38.8 from three-point range, and was an influential part of the University of Connecticut Huskies’ national championship run. Hawkins also collected All-Big East, NCAA All-Region, and NCAA All-Tournament honors. The New Orleans Pelicans aren’t just getting a national champion but one of the nation’s best perimeter shooters.

New Orleans Pelicans general manager Trajan Langdon addressed a priority with this move because the team ranked 29th in three-point attempts last season. We can expect that percentage to increase next season with Hawkins contributing to the backcourt.

7: Keyonte George (Baylor) – Utah Jazz

After selecting UCF forward Taylor Hendricks with the ninth overall pick, the Utah Jazz doubled up and added Baylor guard Keyonte George.

The 6-foot-4 floor general averaged 15.3 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 2.8 assists for the Bears last season. George earned Big 12 Freshman of the Year, All-Newcomer Team, All-Freshman Team, and Second-team All-Big 12 honors.

We can expect Keyonte George to be an impact player in Salt Lake City eventually; however, he must wait his turn in line. The rookie shooting guard will come off the Jazz bench and have to play minutes behind Jordan Clarkson, Ochai Agbaji, and Talen Horton-Tucker. Regardless this move by Danny Ainge puts Utah back in playoff contention if everyone stays healthy.