Charlotte Hornets starting lineup: Locks, fringe and potential break-ins

Fringe options for the Charlotte Hornets’ starting lineup

LaMelo Ball, Terry Rozier, Miles Bridges

So I’m putting both LaMelo Ball and Terry Rozier on the same tier of starters because I think the odds on who will start are fairly even. I think Rozier definitely starts the season as the starter but that’s all I’m sure of.

If Rozier plays like he did last year or even develops his game a little bit more, then Rozier can definitely stay the starting for the rest of his tenure in Charlotte. Rozier played the best of his career last year as he improved his playmaking and shooting. He also ranked fourth at the catch-and-shoot in the NBA and these improvements should not be overlooked.

Ball definitely has the opportunity to start as the point guard for Charlotte. He averaged nearly seven assists in Australia and that playmaking could make a huge difference for the Hornets offense. Ball is great on the boards and as a starter, the limelight would be on Hornets all season.

I think at the mid-season mark, the Hornets should evaluate how the team is performing before naming a long-term starter between Ball or Rozier.  Now I think the team will definitely choose Ball for the long-run of the point guard position but if bringing him off the bench makes the Hornets elite, then it may be time to reevaluate.

Miles Bridges definitely can earn himself a starting spot in Queen City. Bridges plays virtually the same position as Washington and can edge himself into the lineup if Washington struggles for a stretch. Bridges is focusing on improving his defense on top of his offensive capabilities which could make him valuable from tip to the end of regulation. Bridges was also the Rising Stars MVP after All-Star weekend last year.