Charlotte Hornets: Michael Jordan “committed” to building winner

During yesterday’s All-Star press conference, Charlotte Hornets owner Michael Jordan reiterated his desire to build a winning team in Charlotte.

Winning means everything in this business. Charlotte Hornets owner Michael Jordan knows that more than anybody else.

Jordan, the greatest basketball player of all time, in my opinion, had a lot to say during a press conference regarding the upcoming All-Star weekend taking place in Charlotte. He made one thing clear, and that is that he wants the Hornets to be a winning team moving forward.

"“I think it’s still up to us, as well as the organization to make this city proud about its team, we’re still committed to do that.” Jordan said. “We still have a lot of work to do in terms of making our fan base even more prouder about playing in June. Yes, it’s still a major focus.”"

You can listen to Jordan’s entire press conference here:

So, it’s clear that Jordan hopes to see this team competing in the playoffs this year. So far, the Hornets have been firmly in the playoff race, but must finish this season strong if they want to accomplish this goal.

The Hornets currently sit in 7th place in the Eastern Conference, with a record of 27-29. However, the Brooklyn Nets, Detroit Pistons, Miami Heat and even the Orlando Magic are also in this playoff race and will all be a threat to the Hornets.

Speaking of the Magic, the Hornets will face them in Orlando tomorrow night. It’s going to be an important game for Charlotte going into the All-Star break.

It’s tough to evaluate the Hornets, simply because when they are playing to win, like they are right now, they are still a mediocre, lower-seed playoff team. Some would rather the team just tear it down and start over, building towards the future.

But can you blame MJ? Who want’s to lose? Losing stinks.

As long as the team retains Kemba Walker this summer and continues to add young pieces in the draft and free agency, they should continue to be competitive.

Already having two young assets in Malik Monk and Miles Bridges is important. The development of those two moving forward will be very important, because this isn’t going to be Kemba Walker’s team forever.

Also, I understand getting a lottery pick is exciting, but how many stars have we seen picked outside of the lottery in recent years? Kawhi Leonard, Giannis Antetokounmpo and Rudy Gobert instantly come to mind.

Picking in the middle of the first round instead of picking in the lottery is not the end of the world for the Hornets. As long as you have an eye for talent, you can hit from anywhere in the draft. Mitch Kupchak did a good job in his first draft with Charlotte, and has done a pretty solid job overall since taking over during the off-season.

The Charlotte Hornets are in good position to compete with teams around the league. Now, it’s up to the players and coaching staff to take the next step forward with the front office behind them being all-in on winning right now.