Swarm and Sting
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Charlotte Hornets: 5 free agents who can immediately contribute

By Shawn Simmons

LAKE BUENA VISTA, FLORIDA - AUGUST 14: DeMarre Carroll #9 of the Houston Rockets shoots agains the Philadelphia 76ers during the second half of an NBA basketball game at the ESPN Wide World Of Sports Complex on August 14, 2020 in Lake Buena Vista, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ashley Landis-Pool/Getty Images)
LAKE BUENA VISTA, FLORIDA - AUGUST 14: DeMarre Carroll #9 of the Houston Rockets shoots agains the Philadelphia 76ers during the second half of an NBA basketball game at the ESPN Wide World Of Sports Complex on August 14, 2020 in Lake Buena Vista, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ashley Landis-Pool/Getty Images) /
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The Charlotte Hornets have a little under $5 million in salary cap space and an open roster spot to bring in another player to upgrade a position in an area of need. It’s possible that the Hornets won’t use this available cap space and roster spot until after the NBA trade deadline on March 25 or unless a major injury impacts that roster.

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Here are some available free agents that the Hornets could sign now that could immediately contribute.

DeMarre Carroll

It is hard to think about DeMarre Carroll and not use the word ‘efficient,’ efficient pretty much sums up Carroll’s game. He won’t fill up the stat sheet but he’s hardworking and active on both ends of the court; he always brings great energy. Carroll can be a shutdown defender and is a capable scorer when he is needed.  The downside in bringing Carroll in is that he isn’t much of a rebounder.

Allen Crabbe

Allen Crabbe isn’t someone that you are going to put in the game over Caleb Martin or Cody Martin for a defensive possession, his singular skill is on offense. Crabbe skill is one that no Hornets’ player on the bench has been able to fulfill this season, being a consistent outside shooter. He isn’t flashy, he’s not one to attack the rim, but Crabbe is a true jump-shooter and good at creating catch-and-shoot opportunities.

Dewayne Dedmon

The Hornets have struggled in rim protection for multiple seasons and have failed to address this need through the draft and free agency. Dewayne Dedmon’s best skill is rim protection. He’s very active on defense blocking shots, collecting steals, and protecting the rim. Dedmon is also good at the pick-and-roll and can stretch the floor on offense with his three-point shot.

Rondae Hollis-Jefferson

Rondae Hollis-Jefferson brings high energy and active defense on the court. With the Hornets’ deficit in talent, a player at how is capable of guarding both big and small players could be useful to the team. You can depend on Hollis-Jefferson on the offensive end, he can be streaky and his shooting fundamentals need work, his defensive skills and ability to rebound both on the offensive and defensive glass may be reason enough for the Hornets to pick up the phone.

Allonzo Trier

Allonzo Trier is a solid, all-around offensive player. Trier is always active on the offensive end making good passes, hitting outside shots from the two and three, drawing fouls, getting to and finishing at the rim. He’s not as sound on the defensive end as he is on offense. Trier has the potential to be a good sixth-man for a team.

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