Most people agree on the top five picks in the 2025 NBA Draft, with Cooper Flagg, Dylan Harper, Ace Bailey, V.J. Edgecombe, and Tre Johnson going in that order. This would mean that Edgecombe would be selected by the Charlotte Hornets at No. 4.
However, not everyone agrees.
Egor Demin vs. V.J. Edgecombe: Who Should The Hornets Draft?
One fan took to Reddit to argue that the Hornets should pass on Edgecombe and select Egor Demin as the fourth overall pick. This opinion is based primarily on Demin’s high basketball IQ, which is considered one of the highest among players in the draft.
Do you like Egor Demin fit with Charlotte?
byu/WhoUCuh inNBA_Draft
Such a bold opinion unleashed a formidable avalanche of criticism. In fact, it found virtually no supporters:
Would it be a good idea to skip Edgecombe and go after Demin? Let’s see.
Egor Demin: The High-IQ Playmaker
The BYU star boasts elite playmaking, size (6’8″) and exceptional court vision, being capable of running an offense and making advanced reads. His height allows him to see over defenses, making him a matchup nightmare.
From an offensive standpoint, he is not yet a consistent three-point shooter, but his mechanics are smooth, and he has shown flashes of deep-range potential.
Among his many strengths is his versatility, as he can play PG, SG, or SF, giving the Hornets lineup flexibility alongside LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller. However, he also lacks elite explosiveness and may struggle against quicker NBA wings.
As many fans have noted, Demin also needs to add strength to handle NBA-level contact, especially when driving.
Charlotte will definitely keep in mind that they already have a franchise playmaker in LaMelo Ball, but Demin’s ability to initiate offense as a secondary creator could ease Ball’s burden. His size and passing would complement Miller’s scoring, making the Hornets’ offense more dynamic.
V.J. Edgecombe: The Explosive Two-Way Wing
Baylor superstar Edgecombe has made a name for himself thanks to his superb athleticism and defense. He is one of the best athletes in the draft, with blazing speed, leaping ability, and lockdown defensive potential. He could guard 1-3 at the NBA level from day one.
Offensively, he attacks the rim with force, excels in transition, and has shown improved touch around the basket. Add to that his relentless energy, and you’ll have the strong culture fit you need for a rebuilding team.
Obviously, not everything is rosy with him. His jumper is still a work in progress, which could limit spacing early in his career, and he may not be a primary ball-handler as he is more of a scorer than a facilitator.
Charlotte could find in Edgecombe the wing defender and transition scorer they need. His athleticism and defensive intensity would pair well with Ball’s playmaking, while his cutting ability would thrive in an up-tempo system.
Verdict: Who Should the Hornets Draft?
If they want playmaking & upside: Egor Demin gives them a unique secondary creator with size, raising their offensive ceiling.
If they prioritize defense & athleticism: VJ Edgecombe is the better two-way fit, bringing immediate energy and defensive impact.
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Given Charlotte’s need for wing defense and transition scoring, VJ Edgecombe is the better choice. His athleticism, defensive versatility, and high motor align perfectly with the Hornets’ young core, making him the more natural fit.
Projected Pick: V.J. Edgecombe (higher floor, better immediate impact).
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