There have been plenty of questions about what the Charlotte Hornets' best plan for the future may be. Should they continue to build around LaMelo Ball and retain their current core for another go around? Or should they shake things up and deal away one or multiple key players to hit the reset button?
No one can say for sure what Jeff Peterson's plans are as of right now. But what we do know is that he is willing to take risks, and that he is comfortable taking a swing on a big move. We knew that was true beyond a shadow of a doubt when he pulled off what would have been a blockbuster trade to send Mark Williams to the Los Angeles Lakers last month. Of course, we all know what happened after that, as the trade failed to go through due to the Lakers failing Williams on his physical.
But although the trade was not ultimately completed, we learned more of what Peterson's style was through this move. Additionally, having this transaction almost go down also gives the latest intel a lot more credence. According to a report from ESPN's Tim Bontemps and Brian Windhorst, an anonymous NBA executive had this to say on this matter.
Anonymous executive: Hornets may be willing to trade multiple players
"There may not be too many players on their roster they're not willing to discuss in deals this summer," one executive said. "It may start with [2023 No. 2 pick] Brandon Miller and not go too far after that."
No one should be doubting that Peterson is willing to roll the dice after seeing how he nearly sent Mark Williams to Los Angeles. As for the players the Hornets would be totally unwilling to discuss in potential deals, it is hard to say for sure. But including Brandon Miller as one of the top candidates to be labeled "untouchable" feels like a solid bet.
Charlotte's front office has not been shy about pulling the trigger on roster-altering moves since Peterson took over in 2024. There is no telling who is on the table for potential trades and who is not, but this management group is clearly going to do what they must to bring a winning basketball team to the Queen City.