Grading all four Charlotte Hornets picks in the 2020 NBA draft

Charlotte Hornets pick No. 32: Vernon Carey jr.

Vernon Carey is one of the biggest players in this draft, standing 6’10” and weighing in at 270 lbs. He has made a living in college as a traditional center, using his body to make the deep paint catches and boxing out for rebounds.

Despite being agile for his size, Carey is only a good rim protector if he does not have to move too far. He is a solid free-throw shooter but stops ball movement. Once it goes into the paint to him, it does not come out. His selection probably means Bismack Biyombo will not return.

Draft grade: B-

Charlotte Hornets pick No. 42: Nick Richards.

Nick Richards was selected by the Memphis Grizzlies before being traded to the Hornets for a 2024 second-round pick. Richards is an athletic 7’0″, 247 pound center out of Kentucky. His 7’5″ wingspan will certainly help the team’s rim protection issues.

While he struggles offensively, he has the ability to explode off two feet and can catch an alley-oop so will try and make a living off that. He can also switch out and defend guards on the perimeter which will help him at the NBA level.

Draft grade: B

Charlotte Hornets pick No. 56: Grant Riller.

Grant Rillie is an interesting prospect. He is one of the best scorers in the NCAA going for 21.0 points per game. The question mark over Riller is that played for Charleston in Division two. How will his skills translate into the NBA?

Riller is most probably going to struggle to make the roster but if he does he could turn into a good floor spacer for the second unit. It is hard to get excited about a very late second-round pick but it will be interesting to see what he brings to training camp.

Draft Grade: C+

The Hornets did what was required this draft night. They were going to choose either Anthony Edwards, James Wiseman, or Ball, depending on who fell to the third pick. The second-round picks add some intrigue to training camp.

Overall grade: A-