Florida Gator forward Thomas Haugh could get drafted by an exciting NBA team.
Florida Gator swingman Thomas Haugh is expected to be a first-round pick in the 2026 NBA Draft and a new mock draft has him landing with an exciting team.
Jonathan Wasserman of Bleacher Report has the Charlotte Hornets taking Haugh with the 18th pick in the 2026 draft.
"Thomas Haugh's draft case revolves more around fit than upside," Wasserman wrote. "It seems more likely his suitors will be playoff contenders who see the right puzzle piece, rather than rebuilding teams willing to wait on long-term potential.
"He continues to hit threes, deliver above-the-rim finishes and give scouts the occasional flash of creation into drives or dribble jumpers. Haugh has earned the plug-and-play label with 6'9" size, shooting, athleticism and IQ/hustle."
Haugh playing with LaMelo Ball, Brandon Miller and Kon Knueppel would be deadly. The Gator averaged 17.1 points, 6.1 rebounds and 2.1 assists per game this season while shooting 46.0% from the field, 32.6% from beyond the arc and 77.4% from the free-throw line.
Haugh helped Florida win the NCAA championship in 2025. He's a proven winner whose basketball skills project to be a good fit in Charlotte under head coach Charles Lee.
Haugh finished his college career with averages of 10.1 points, 5.3 rebounds and 1.7 assists per game. He was one of the best players in the SEC this season and is entering the NBA on a high note development-wise.
It will be fascinating to see where Haugh is playing next season. Wasserman has compared him to Jeff Green, who has been in the NBA since 2007 and is still playing.
Haugh's career high in college is 27 points. He scored 27 points twice this season.
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