Hornets Draft Hannes Steinbach Using No. 14 Pick

A 20-year-old big man who played for Würzburg in his home country of Germany in 2024/25, Steinbach joined the Huskies for the ’25/26 season and made an immediate impact, earning a spot on the All-Big Ten third team as a freshman.

Steinbach’s calling card is his ability to protect the glass. He led the nation with 11.8 rebounds per game, including 4.2 per game on the offensive boards. The 6’11” German also contributed 18.5 points, 1.6 assists, 1.2 blocks, and 1.1 steals in 34.6 minutes per contest.

Steinbach’s jump shot remains a work in progress – he hit 18-of-53 three-pointers (34.0%) for Washington – and he’s not a traditional rim protector or a versatile, switchable defender, notes Jeremy Woo of ESPN. However, his rebounding ability and scoring touch around the basket should make him a contributor in the NBA, especially if his shot keeps improving, Woo observes.

Steinbach provides an intriguing alternative to a frontcourt in flux. Miles Bridges, who is entering the final year of his contract, is considered a prime trade candidate. Brandon Miller underwent shoulder surgery last month and is eligible for a rookie scale extension. His health status for the start of next season remains a question mark.

Moussa Diabate was one of the league’s biggest surprises last season and recently had his modest salary by NBA standards guaranteed for next season but it’s certainly conceivable Steinbach could see some minutes at the 5 spot.