Hornets set sights on Arizona standout Koa Peat for 2026 draft
The 2026 NBA Draft may seem like a distant event, but in Charlotte, discussions about the future are already heating up. Fresh off an exhilarating overtime victory against the Cleveland Cavaliers, the Hornets face a daunting task to avoid landing once again in the lottery. As the season unfolds, health concerns and a glaring lack of depth remain significant hurdles for the team.
Koa Peat’s Impressive Freshman Campaign
In a recent mock draft, CBS Sports’ Kyle Boone forecasts the Hornets selecting Arizona freshman forward Koa Peat with the seventh overall pick. Standing at 6’8” and weighing 235 pounds, Peat has made his mark early on in his collegiate career. He’s currently averaging 15.6 points and 5.7 rebounds per game, with standout performances that include a stunning 30-point, 7-rebound game against Florida in his season opener, followed by a strong showing against UConn where he posted a 16-point, 12-rebound, and 3-assist line along with two blocks.
Boone highlights Peat’s exceptional athleticism and energy, noting that his skill set—already elite for a player of his size—still has room for growth. Through his first nine games, Peat is maintaining averages of 14.8 points, 5 rebounds, and 2.9 assists, while shooting an impressive 55% from the field. His dynamic play is sure to catch the attention of NBA front offices, but the question remains: how would he fit within the Hornets’ system?
Roster Dynamics and Fit Concerns
Head coach Charles Lee already has a center in Ryan Kalkrenner, who lacks the ability to stretch the floor with three-point shooting. Adding another frontcourt player who also has limited range could complicate the team’s offensive strategy. Lee envisions a lineup where all five players can shoot from beyond the arc, and selecting Peat could mean having two players in the rotation who need development in that area.
However, the Hornets are in a position where they cannot afford to prioritize fit over pure talent. If Peat emerges as the best player available when their turn to draft comes, general manager Mitch Kupchak would be hard-pressed to pass on him. Lee may need to adapt his offensive philosophy to accommodate Peat’s strengths, as his athleticism and skill set could provide a significant boost to the team.
Additionally, drafting Peat could signal a potential trade involving Miles Bridges, especially if Bridges remains on the roster past the trade deadline.
Recruitment and High School Legacy
Peat’s rise in the basketball world is notable; he was ranked as the 11th-best player in the nation coming out of high school, according to 247 Sports. His recruitment was fierce, with offers pouring in from top programs including Alabama, Duke, Kentucky, and North Carolina among others.
As the Hornets continue their quest for stability and success, keeping an eye on emerging talents like Koa Peat could prove crucial for their future. With the backdrop of current struggles and the promise of young prospects, the upcoming draft could be a pivotal moment for the franchise.
