It is still early in the season, but it is looking more like the Charlotte Hornets will need another top draft pick to boost their ongoing rebuild. However, they could have stiff competition, with Walker Kessler's lengthy injury possibly giving the Utah Jazz a higher chance of winning the draft lottery next year.
The news that Kessler sustained a torn labrum that will require season-ending surgery is brutal for the Jazz. The promising five had been fantastic to open his fourth year in the league, averaging 14.4 points, 10.8 rebounds, 3.0 assists, 1.8 blocks, and 1.4 steals per game in five appearances this season. He could have been a dream trade target for Charlotte if it weren't for Ryan Kalkbrenner and Moussa Diabate defying expectations and disproving the notion that the franchise's supposed biggest position of need is center.
With Kessler on the shelf until next season, Utah might have more incentive to tank the 2025-26 campaign despite a solid 3-4 start. The Hornets are not in the same boat for now, as it seems they were hoping to start being more competitive. They have experienced several setbacks, though, and their outlook for the coming weeks appears to be pretty bleak.
Walker Kessler's injury could also present an opportunity for Hornets
The Jazz's anticipated fall in the standings and rise in the race for higher draft lottery odds stemming from the Kessler situation may not be all bad for Charlotte. Jeff Peterson and company have to prepare for the possibility of Danny Ainge doubling down on the rebuild by exchanging Lauri Markkanen for draft assets.
Fantasizing about landing Markkanen might be ill-advised for the Hornets organization and its fans, as the 28-year-old forward likely wants to be on a team that could present him with the opportunity to reach the playoffs for the first time. Still, it's salivating to imagine another bona fide star suiting up alongside LaMelo Ball, who has yet to prove he can lead a franchise, and Brandon Miller. He also fills a massive hole at power forward, as Miles Bridges does not appear to be the long-term solution for Charlotte.
The chances, though, of the Hornets acquiring Markkanen may be slimmer than finding a game-changing prospect in the 2026 draft. So, they should be praying as early as now that the basketball gods will finally bless them in the draft lottery. Of course, such a scenario is predicated on another campaign without reaching the playoffs. Unfortunately, Charlotte might have to brace for that outcome again.