Rising star Morez Johnson Jr. could be the defensive anchor the Charlotte Hornets need. Despite a potential reach at 14, his elite combine performance suggests a perfect frontline fit.
The Charlotte Hornets enter the 2026 NBA Draft knowing that they have a foundation set for future success in the playoffs.
After making the Play-In Tournament this spring, the Hornets are ascending, though they have some pieces to add if they hope to better contend in the Eastern Conference.
Charlotte can score, especially with Kon Knueppel and LaMelo Ball in the starting line. What the Hornets lack is a big man who can defend, and that's what they're expected to address in this year's draft.
Adam Finklestein of CBS Sports projected the Hornets to draft Morez Johnson Jr. out of Michigan with the No. 14 pick. He averaged 13.1 points, 7.3 rebounds and 1.2 assists last season.
Johnson is listed at the No. 17 prospect in the draft, so taking him with the No. 14 pick would be a bit of a reach, but he'd perfectly fit a position of need for Charlotte. The six-foot-nine, 250-pound forward is gaining buzz after a strong showing at the NBA combine earlier this month.
"Johnson was one of the biggest winners of the combine, measuring bigger than expected with massive length, well-rounded athleticism, and simultaneously reaffirming the shooting gains we saw this year," Finklestein wrote.
"Combine that with his rugged physicality and lateral mobility, and the versatile two-way role he played at Michigan should be extremely translatable to a Hornets team that is looking to solidify its frontline."
Johnson is excited to begin his NBA career. He credited Michigan coach Dusty May for developing him into an elite basketball player.
"From day one, Coach May told us he was going to help develop us on and off the court, and the goal was to win a national championship," Johnson said, via ESPN. "We accomplished that mission.
"Michigan is everything. You want to find a community that embraces you, helps you grow and reach your ultimate goal. Michigan offers it all. From the best fans in the nation to the alumni base."
Johnson would be another addition who could help the Hornets offense be even more lethal with an inside threat, which could complement a solid perimeter.
