Pistons Palace NBA mock draft post lottery

24. Charlotte Hornets

P.J. Hairston, SG , Texas Legends (NBADL)

Mar 24, 2013; Kansas City, MO, USA; North Carolina Tar Heels guard P.J. Hairston (15) puts up a shot against the Kansas Jayhawks in the second half during the third round of the NCAA basketball tournament at the Sprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Peter G. Aiken-USA TODAY Sports

After getting the most athletic player in the draft at number 9, the Hornets need to focus on adding some shooting depth and a weapon off the bench that can help them solidify their offenst. P.J. Hairston probably would of went earlier in this draft if it wasn’t for the dismissal at North Carolina and all the questions.

One thing is certain though. In a professional league a step down from the NBA, Hairston held his own. He averaged over 21 points per game while shooting 45% from the field.

That’s offensive production that Michael Jordan cannot pass up.

Since the Hornets have such a great defensive core, it would allow them to switch Hairston in and out with Gerald Henderson or Michael Kidd-Gilchrist.

He creates lanes with his strong body and gets to the basket easily, yet has one of the best jumpers in the draft. He also is great at getting a bucket in the early part of possessions — which is a very important trait in the NBA. At #24 in the draft, he is a steal for the Hornets and makes their drive to be a perennial playoff team that much easier.