Why a Former Villanova Star Could Be a Gem in Charlotte

After going undrafted in June’s NBA Draft, Eric Dixon was a player considered by many to be a surprise player who did not get drafted. The former Villanova star was one of the top scorers in the country in his collegiate career and was one of the top three-point marksmen in the country last season. The 24-year-old player was picked up by the Lakers as a free agent, but was waived by them following a foot injury. He signed with the Hornets three days ago on an Exhibit 10 contract and has a huge upside to make the team and provide frontcourt depth. He will most likely spend time with the G-League team, the Greensboro Swarm, where he could develop into the player most saw as an NBA draft pick this summer.

The move to get Dixon has garnered praise around the Association, and according to the “Swarm and Sting’s” Orel Dizon, his skill set caught the attention of head coach Charles Lee. It also helps that his college coach, Kyle Neptune, is the new assistant coach on the roster. By signing an Exhibit 10 contract, Dixon could earn up to $85,000 if he spends at least 60 days in the G-League. If he were to get promoted to the main roster, the Hornets would have to open up a roster spot for him. This can easily be done by shopping around veterans for draft capital, which is something the team may very well do depending on how the season plays out. If the 24-year-old can replicate his 23.3 points per game along with his 40 percent shooting that he showed in college, the Hornets might opt to bring him up in the middle of the season on a standard contract or a two-way contract. Hornets fans saw this with Moussa Diabate last season, as his impressive play in the G-League translated to the NBA, and he ended up getting a standard contract with the team as a result of the work he had put in.

Only time will tell if Dixon can make the Hornets roster. However, with the lack of power forwards who are bucket-getters, an opportunity may be emerging for Dixon to earn a spot on the team when the time is right. The six-foot-eight power forward brings size, length, versatility, and shoots the ball at a high clip, unlike most players his size. He is a rare player for Charlotte who could go from being undrafted to a household name if developed right.