The Charlotte Hornets underwent significant changes during the recent offseason, aiming to improve their roster for upcoming seasons. While change doesn’t always guarantee success, the Hornets’ moves appear to have paid off, especially when evaluated through the lens of NBA analyst Dan Favale from Bleacher Report. His assessment highlights the Hornets as one of five teams that had quietly impressive offseasons, setting the stage for potential improvement focused on enhancing spacing around star guard LaMelo Ball.
Key Trades and Draft Picks Bolster Hornets’ Roster
Although the Hornets avoided blockbuster deals, Favale recognizes the savvy nature of their transactions. One notable trade involved sending Jusuf Nurkic to acquire Collin Sexton and a 2030 second-round draft pick. Favale called this a stroke of brilliance given Sexton’s skill set and the flexibility he offers.
“Sexton is the better player, with the more coveted skill set. Charlotte can use him to boost its spacing, pick up extra value for him in another trade, or let him come off the books next summer just like Nurkić.”
—Dan Favale, NBA Analyst
The Hornets also strengthened their lineup through the 2023 draft by selecting Kon Knueppel and Liam McNeeley in the first round. Favale praised these players as wing-sized sharpshooters with the ability to create plays both for themselves and teammates, which is crucial to improving the offensive spacing around LaMelo Ball.
“The spacing around LaMelo Ball is going to border on divine for the first time ever.”
—Dan Favale, NBA Analyst
Roster Updates Highlight Significant Additions and Trades
Despite concerns over the center position, which Favale admitted is
“too heavy on Mason Plumlee, definitely too reliant on Moussa Diabaté, and doesn’t have much to offer beyond them,”
the Hornets’ overall upgrades may more than compensate for those weaknesses. The trade involving Mark Williams enabled Charlotte to select McNeeley and secure a future first-round pick, adding further long-term value.
The current roster additions include Collin Sexton, Pat Connaughton, Spencer Dinwiddie, Sion James, Liam McNeeley, Ryan Kalkbrenner, Kon Knueppel, and Mason Plumlee. Players who departed consist of Mark Williams, Jusuf Nurkic, and Seth Curry. This combination reflects a strategic balance of new talent while minimizing key losses, positioning the Hornets for greater competitiveness.
Outlook Hinges on Player Health and Continued Development
Looking ahead, Charlotte’s success will depend heavily on the health and performance of pivotal players like LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller. The enhanced spacing and offensive versatility could lead to improved production and team cohesion, ushering in a stronger showing for the 2025-26 NBA season. While uncertainties remain, particularly regarding the center rotation and durability, the careful roster building undertaken by the Hornets signals a promising trajectory.