TJ Warren
With Miles Bridges’ self-inflicted legal situation, the Hornets would be wise to add another wing to the rotation. Warren has proven to be a solid NBA player and could be a nice addition if he can stay healthy. The North Carolina native and former NC State forward was particularly impactful in the NBA bubble, averaging 26.6 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 2.4 assists across ten games. Warren also had a 53-point performance in the bubble, good for third on the Indiana Pacers’ all-time list.
As mentioned, injuries are a concern with Warren. He has played just four games since the bubble due to injuries to his left foot. It should be noted that the Pacers hit the reset button last season and were not incentivized to bring Warren back quickly. If they had been trying to make a playoff push, Warren likely would have returned to the lineup.
Charlotte still has Gordon Hayward and Kelly Oubre on the roster, although adding Warren would help provide insurance against Hayward’s own injury issues and Oubre’s inconsistencies. There is also a chance that one or both of them are traded at some point during the season; Oubre in particular could be attractive to a team looking to take on an expiring contract.
Warren will be 29 years old when next season begins. If healthy, he could turn out to be a long-term piece in Charlotte on a team-friendly deal.