For now, the dream of seeing a superstar play for the Charlotte Hornets depends on whether LaMelo Ball can reach his potential (and stay healthy). There is a chance, albeit very slim, that Mark Williams and Brandon Miller can also develop into one.
If the Hornets grab a highly touted prospect in the 2025 draft, they will have another superstar candidate. However, several other teams are also vying for a top draft pick and might be more willing to tank to the bottom of the standings.
A certain two-time MVP, though, could find his way home to Charlotte and give the franchise a needed boost on and off the floor.
Hornets are mentioned anew as a destination for Stephen Curry
The Golden State Warriors' freefall this season has been unfortunate. After battling for the No. 1 seed in the Western Conference in November, they are now out of the play-in picture. Their latest loss has them dropping below .500 again.
Some people are skeptical of the Warriors' chances of transforming into a contender, especially because they have failed to provide Stephen Curry with consistent help on offense. The four-time champion is averaging just 22.6 points per game this season, which is understandable given he is about to turn 37 in two months. However, no one among his teammates has been able to pick up the slack, with Andrew Wiggins, the team's second-leading scorer, putting up 17.0 points per contest.
So, Golden State has been getting unsolicited advice to break up the band and start a massive rebuild. Interestingly, some pundits believe the organization should explore giving up Curry.
Kevin O'Connor of Yahoo! Sports made up some fake Steph trades and brought up the Hornets as a possible partner for the Dubs. The writer proposed Charlotte sending Miles Bridges, Grant Williams, Josh Green, four first-round selections, and two swaps in exchange for Curry, Kevon Looney, and Lindy Waters III.
Of course, that would all depend on whether the 10-time All-Star would even want to leave the Bay Area. Going to the place where he grew up and to a team where his father serves as a commentator and his brother suits up could certainly be enticing. And the Hornets faithful would probably salivate at the idea.
Skeptics might say that the fit wouldn't be seamless. On the other hand, Curry could actually be the perfect complement for Ball, Miller, and Mark Williams because he has proven that he doesn't have to dominate the ball to be effective. The future Hall of Famer could open the floor for his teammates to shine and unlock their potential.
However, it would be difficult to see Charlotte agree with O'Connor's proposal. Giving up a ton of assets for a couple of years of an aging superstar contradicts the organization's vision of building a sustainable contender.