Charlotte Hornets recipients of appropriate title for 2023-24
The Charlotte Hornets found themselves being given a title that seems very appropriate for the upcoming 2023-2024 season. What was that title? The NBA’s most unpredictable team. This is according to Sir Charles in Charge’s Alexander Shefchyk in a recently published article, and it is easy to understand why.
Concerns about issues off the court, past and present, ranging from the bizarre social media behavior of Kai Jones to much more serious legal issues lead to Shefchyk stating, “It seems every day you open social media, you hear about a new Hornet related to something ridiculous other than playing basketball. Not an ideal situation.”. The fact this description of recent events is very fitting is a bit unsettling for the current state of the Hornets franchise.
Additionally, the recent change in ownership in Charlotte was noted as a potential factor. It is not uncommon for a sports franchise to experience some level of instability upon an ownership change, and considering the pre-existing unstable state of the Hornets, there is an increased chance that things could spiral out of control.
But perhaps one area could result in the greatest amount of uncertainty in Charlotte this season. Injuries. LaMelo Ball and Gordon Hayward are specifically mentioned as having issues staying healthy recently. While Hayward’s time with the Hornets seems destined to come to an end sooner rather than later, Ball is essential this season and those down the line as he is their most talented player. The former third-overall draft selection missed the majority of last season, making it difficult for the team to find any success in his absence.
While the author believes that Charlotte could make the playoffs, (true postseason qualification versus Play-In Tournament was not specified), there does appear to be a feeling of doubt regarding potential success. This is rooted in the previous unpredictability of the franchise, and there is a very real possibility that it continues into the upcoming season. Until the Hornets can prove they are no longer the same organization they were in the past, there will continue to be skepticism about whether or not they can take that next step forward as a franchise.
