Charlotte Hornets: Five intriguing lineup combinations
By Quinn Everts
Third Lineup: Terry Rozier, James Bouknight, Scottie Lewis, JT Thor, Jalen McDaniels
Nickname Idea: The Carolina Condors
The California Condor has a wingspan of almost ten feet. This lineup is equivalent to five California Condors simultaneously swarming opposing teams. I did some quick maths, and this lineup has 408 inches of wingspan. Thirty-four feet of arms.
Realistically, I am not sure this lineup has enough playmaking, or experience, to justify ever seeing the floor this season. “So why did you make it an intriguing lineup then Quinn, you fool?” First off, calm down, imaginary reader. Secondly, rolling out a lineup based solely on length (and lots of it) is about as intriguing as it gets.
Yes, I understand that a JT Thor and Jalen Mcdaniels frontcourt could be a bit of a disaster in 2021, and Scottie Lewis will probably spend a majority of his time playing for the Greensboro Swarm this season. So consider this a lineup for the 2022-23 season when all three of those guys have developed a bit.
In my brain, I picture this group clamping opposing offenses with their obscene length and athleticism, and a second-year, developed James Bouknight being able to shoulder more primary ball handling duties, allowing Rozier to find catch-and-shoot opportunities as he does alongside Ball.
Thor and McDaniels should be able to shoot three-pointers at a respectable rate, and having both of your big men as long, versatile shooters creates some serious spacing advantages in theory. Fingers crossed that both of their development tracks progress positively.
I am also starting to think Kupchak makes his second round picks based on which prospect has the longest arms.