Here’s a polished paraphrase:
After finishing the season with a strong stretch of performances, the Charlotte Hornets appear to have established a promising core for the future.
Holding two selections within the top 18 of the draft should further strengthen the roster’s depth while addressing one of the team’s most significant shortcomings.
Charlotte led the NBA in three-pointers made last season, averaging 16.4 per game, and ranked third in three-point percentage at 37.8%. However, the team’s production inside the arc lagged behind. The Hornets finished 29th in made two-point field goals and ranked just 21st in two-point percentage at 53.8%.
While perimeter shooting remains essential in today’s NBA, Charlotte would benefit from adding more interior scoring to create a more balanced offensive attack.
2025–26 Record: 44–38
Draft Picks: 14, 18
Re-Sign Coby White
Although the team’s turnaround began before his arrival, Coby White played a major role in the Hornets’ late-season push toward the playoffs.
In 21 games with Charlotte, White averaged 15.6 points and 3.0 assists in just 19.3 minutes per game while shooting 39.1% from three-point range.
Now entering free agency, White’s departure would leave a significant scoring void on the second unit. While he is expected to earn considerably more than the $12.9 million he made in 2025–26, Charlotte owns his Bird rights and has ample financial flexibility. Re-signing him should be a priority.
Upgrade the Center Position
Rookie Ryan Kalkbrenner exceeded expectations, and Moussa Diabaté’s energy and athleticism helped fuel Charlotte’s strong finish. Even so, center remains an area where the Hornets could improve.
A floor-spacing center would be an ideal complement to LaMelo Ball. Charlotte occasionally achieved that effect through small-ball lineups featuring Grant Williams, but at 6-foot-7, he lacks the size of a traditional center. Adding a bigger player who can stretch the floor without sacrificing rebounding or rim protection would significantly enhance the roster.
Add Defensive Support
Charlotte came close to ending the season with a top-10 defense, but two of its cornerstone players—LaMelo Ball and Kon Knueppel—still have room to grow on that end of the court.
Some defensive improvement could come naturally through the continued development of Knueppel and Brandon Miller. However, acquiring a defense-first wing would provide additional support and help strengthen the team’s overall defensive identity.
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