Charlotte Hornets: 2017 NBA Draft grades
No. 40 — Dwayne Bacon
The 40th pick in the draft originally belonged to the Pelicans but was swapped with the Hornets for the 31st pick and cash considerations. The Hornets needed to secure an athletic wing player who could back up Nicolas Batum, Michael Kidd-Gilchrist, and Marvin Williams.
Dwayne Bacon’s player bio on the NBA Draft site lists him at 6’7″ and 220 pounds. The NBA trend is leaning towards wing players who can both score and defend. The Hornets are hoping that Bacon will be able to eventually provide both on a consistent basis.
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Bacon was able to improve his scoring average from his freshman to sophomore campaigns. However, he saw a dip in his rebounding and was not able to improve on his steals or blocks averages.
With his length at his position, the Hornets will be looking to also develop his rebounding and defensive abilities. Bacon’s teammate Michael Kidd-Gilchrist is an excellent player to model his development after. Bacon may not have the immediate impact that Malik Monk will, but he has potential to eventually become a veteran in the NBA.
Anytime that a team is able to trade down and still draft a prospect who fills a current need, all while saving some valuable salary cap space, it is a positive transaction. The Hornets can hope that one of Bacon’s prior coaches is correct in his assessment of Dwayne.
"“I think he’s going to be a guy that is going to be a steal in the draft” – Stan Jones, Florida State Assistant Coach"
Grade: A