While the Charlotte Hornets hosting the Golden State Warriors on New Year's Eve would probably just be another regular game for the squad, it might induce a feeling of yearning for some fans if the rumor of Seth Curry joining the Warriors proves true.
It's still unclear if Curry ends up joining forces with his superstar brother, Stephen, in Golden State, as some reports state that the team is just waiting for the dust to settle on the controversial free agency of Jonathan Kuminga. Such a team-up would be quite intriguing as it unites not just the siblings but also two of the most prolific 3-pointers in the league. Keep in mind that the Warriors also currently employ another lights-out shooter in Buddy Hield.
Hornets fans know all too well how Seth Curry can strike fear into opponents' hearts, as he led the league in 3-point shooting percentage last season with 45.6 percent.
Hornets have no choice but to bid farewell to the hometown hero
While Charlotte would probably want to retain Seth Curry this offseason, it doesn't have any other choice but to let him go because of a crowded roster.
He had a brief tenure with the Hornets but was able to quickly establish himself as a fan favorite for his professionalism and for giving the team a coveted perimeter threat. It also helped that he seemed to revel in playing for his hometown squad. Seth Curry was born and raised in Charlotte, with his father, Dell, also being a beloved figure in the city for his contributions on the court as a player before and currently as a color commentator for the organization.
The veteran sharpshooter would have been useful still for the Hornets, especially as a guiding presence for the budding star duo of LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller. Unfortunately, the roster is already filled to the brim, with the front office even needing to cut a couple more guys before the start of the regular season to trim it down to 15 standard-contract players.
On the bright side, the Hornets have several young prospects who could be as efficient a marksman as Seth Curry. Kon Knueppel and Liam McNeeley have shown that they are capable perimeter shooters and should benefit from playing alongside Ball. In addition, Charlotte also brought in a couple of players on two-way deals who have made their mark in the league as long-range snipers: Drew Peterson and Antonio Reeves.
Clearly, the Hornets have learned how important it is to have as many shooters as possible, although it did cost them the opportunity to re-sign a highly esteemed veteran.