Three trades that the Charlotte Hornets should explore with their draft picks

SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH - MARCH 31: Rudy Gobert #27 of the Utah Jazz reacts to a play during the second half against the Los Angeles Lakers at Vivint Smart Home Arena on March 31, 2022 in Salt Lake City, Utah. 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 Alex Goodlett/Getty Images)
SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH - MARCH 31: Rudy Gobert #27 of the Utah Jazz reacts to a play during the second half against the Los Angeles Lakers at Vivint Smart Home Arena on March 31, 2022 in Salt Lake City, Utah. 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 Alex Goodlett/Getty Images)
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After a sour end to the 2022 season, the Charlotte Hornets enter one of their most important offseasons ever.

With two picks in the top half of the draft, the Hornets have several moves they can make. They could use both picks and add young talent to one of the league’s youngest teams. They could trade the picks and try to receive an instant-impact veteran. They could even use the picks to move up in the draft.

The Hornets should trade at least one of the picks in a package to upgrade the roster. Charlotte wants to compete now, so it needs instant-impact players. A player selected with the 13th pick or the 15th pick will not provide that.

The team has the assets to make improvements. It will be on the front office and recently extended General Manager Mitch Kupchak to make those moves.

Last year the Horents traded a first-round pick to draft Kai Jones. Will the team make a move in the first round for the second year in a row?

This article explores three potential trades that would help the Hornets next season and beyond.