Charlotte Hornets Round Table: Free Agent targets by position
Point Guard
Brendan Boylan: “In the scenario in which Kemba does re-sign with Charlotte the Hornets would be in the market for a backup point guard to either play with the second unit or a veteran to help guide Devonte’ Graham in his second year. Best case for the Hornets is finding a vet that can do a little bit of both at a bargain price. While low risk backup Point Guard signings have not worked well in Charlotte’s favor the past few seasons, taking another swing here makes sense. Looking at some vets that could fit for a small fee, I like Isaiah Thomas and Jeremy Lin. Both guys have had their own success in the league and have found themselves as stars, starters, role players, and bench guys at different points in their career. This could be a good fit as another mentor to Graham, along with someone who could spell Kemba next season and run the second unit.”
Zachary Padmore: “One option at point guard for the Charlotte Hornets in free agency could be Ricky Rubio, if they lose Kemba Walker. Rubio would be an obvious downgrade, but he can play and would be an interesting fit next to the team’s young core. Indiana is the favorite to land Rubio, but you never know. If they retain Kemba, a backup like Philadelphia’s T.J. McConnell could be ideal, especially if Devonte’ Graham isn’t ready for a full-time backup role.”
Elijah Edwards: “If the Hornets do manage to keep Kemba Walker, then any point guard they do sign would simply be for depth but having a reliable option in case of injury is a nice asset to have. I think a reliable floor general like Ricky Rubio would be nice to have off the bench. His experience and skills as a passer would definitely come in handy and his veteran leadership would be something akin to what Tony Parker brought to the locker room last season. In addition, in the case of injuries, he’s a proven starter who has a knack for getting teammates involved.”
Giovanni Spillman: “The Hornets are definitely in need of a backup point guard, and I would like to see them target Patrick Beverley. He would make a great backup if the Hornets can re-sign Kemba Walker, and he could even be a potential starter if Walker leaves. Beverly is a decent scorer, and he can play defense well; this is something that the team needs.”
Caleb Baugher: “The obvious for me here is Kemba Walker. The number one priority to Charlotte is keeping the All Star and giving him a max deal. It’s going to be very important for Michael Jordan to persuade Kemba in staying in his city and not going somewhere like Boston or Dallas. The trick in keeping Walker is the signing of other free agents which is urgent to Kemba as far as team building goes. Tony Parker’s retirement should open more playing time to second year player, Devonte’ Graham.”
De White: “I’d like to see a young guy, I’d love Dennis Smith Jr. He could be the future of the team, plus he is from North Carolina. Derrick Rose could be a great add too.”