The Hornets have officially signed their two first-round picks, finalizing deals with former UConn guard James Bouknight and former Texas big man Kai Jones, according to a team press release.
Bouknight was taken with the 11th pick after averaging 18.7 PPG and 5.7 RPG in his sophomore season as an athletic shooting guard carrying a major offensive load. He showcased tough shot-making ability, elite athleticism and a nose for getting himself open off cuts and off-ball movement. The highlight of his season was a 40-point game against the ninth-ranked Creighton.
Jones, another sophomore, gained steam as a first-round pick throughout the season, and was at times even considered a potential lottery pick, due to his combination of athleticism, fluidity, and burgeoning offensive skillset, including a promising-looking jump shot. The Hornets traded a protected future first round pick to the Knicks to get the No. 19 pick to select Jones.
According to the team’s press release, Jones became just the fifth Bahamian player ever selected in the NBA draft.
Bouknight’s deal is expected to start at approximately $4.1MM and be worth approximately $19.1MM over its duration, while Jones’ is expected to start at around $2.7MM and will be worth approximately $13.4MM.
I like these two guys a lot. Big time players, I see. Which we could of traded up for Bouknight. I see another Klay here. I’m serious
Can’t believe the Knicks didn’t take Kai Jones instead. Can’t help but feel the Knicks would be better off had they kept Kai Jones and taken a chance on Miles Mcbride or Jared Butler in the 2nd.
For a min I thought they might keep him too. But he’s yrs away. And Knicks wanted guys that can help next yr. Hence McBride n Grimes. But in 5 yrs. We could regret this.