While the Charlotte Hornets are in dire need of a roster upgrade this offseason, free agency may not be the best avenue for them to find it. Not only do they have to make some trades to open up the necessary cap space to be major players in the market, but free agents are probably not lining up to join the organization that many players consider the worst in the NBA.
Besides, it's not as if there are plenty of free agency options for the Hornets. Jonathan Kuminga could be a dream target for the Hive, but they will probably have several competitors for the Golden State Warriors forward.
So, Charlotte might have to focus more on the draft, where it is hoping for favorable results in the lottery, and the trade market. The front office is likely already exploring possible trade targets well before summer, although it should probably think twice before pursuing a three-time All-Star, which some folks have suggested that the Hornets should aim to add.
Domantas Sabonis might limit Hornets' ceiling
With Sacramento Kings star Domantas Sabonis reportedly concerned about the outlook of his squad, he could soon part ways with the franchise and seek a fresh start elsewhere.
Zach Buckley of Bleacher Report brought up the Hornets as a possible landing spot for Sabonis, especially if Buzz City decides to continue building around LaMelo Ball. He wasn't the first sports scribe to raise the idea of Charlotte being the big guy's next home.
The thought of seeing the pair wreak havoc on opposing defenses with their incredible court vision is certainly exciting. That should help solve Charlotte's playmaking deficiency and open up the floor for Brandon Miller, whose ball-handling has yet to reach elite levels.
Unfortunately, acquiring the two-time All-NBA Third Team selection could spell bad news for the Purple and Teal if we think about it. With him around, the Hornets' floor is likely making several playoff appearances. Their ceiling, on the other hand, might not be that high.
Sabonis' track record playing alongside great backcourt players is not exactly inspiring. He was teammates with Victor Oladipo on the Indiana Pacers and De'Aaron Fox on the Sacramento Kings, and yet, he hasn't been suited up in the second round of the playoffs. There could be several reasons behind it, but his mediocre rim protection and interior defense abilities are likely among them.
Moreover, the former lottery pick will be turning 29 in May. Not only will his timeline be a questionable fit with the rest of Charlotte's core players, but his skills are expected to start declining in the near future. Giving up a lot of assets to obtain him does not seem to be aligned with Hornets president of basketball operations Jeff Peterson's vision for the franchise.