Bobcats Draft Preview: Ben McLemore

I spent a lot of time watching Kansas basketball last season (thanks @cassiefago!), so I feel very confident when I say Ben McLemore could be a tremendous pro.  He easily has the athleticism to compete from day 1, and has one of the best shots you’ll find in a young player.  McLemore wasn't asked to be a “slasher” very often in college, that was Travis Releford’s role, or operate as the team leader.  Many pundits have knocked McLemore for a lack of desire, but I think that has more to do with his college situation than natural passivity.  On the other hand, there could be something to his recurring workout issues.

McLemore fits the mold for the new age “2” in the NBA.  Today, the ability to hit 3’s from multiple spots is important, and that is McLemore’s biggest asset.  He can also defend on the pick and roll, put the ball on the floor enough to not be a liability (i.e. Danny Green in games 6/7) and finish around the basket.  To put it simply, I think McLemore is going to be great.  The next question is:  would be a great fit on the Bobcats?  This is a tricky question because the Bobcats best three players are on the perimeter – Kemba, MKG and Henderson.  McLemore’s game is most closely comparable to Hendo who happens to be up for free agency and will probably command between 5 – 8 million dollars a year.  Though the ‘cats were atrocious last season, Hendo had a nice year (15.5/3.7/2.6 on .447/.330/.824) and probably should be re-signed at the right price.  Ramon Sessions and Jeffrey Taylor are capable reserves and create a logjam for minutes at the 2/3.  Essentially, drafting McLemore and keeping Henderson doesn't make a whole lot sense, and would likely spell the end for Henderson in Charlotte.  The Bobcats biggest need remains in the front court, and although McLemore could be the best player of the draft, I don’t think drafting him at the expense of our second best player is the best strategy moving forward.

One final note:  Ben McLemore is a revolutionary when it comes to post-win locker room celebrations.