With the trade season about to commence, it would be interesting to see how the Charlotte Hornets navigate their roster needs. Do they go for win-now moves? Is it better for them to continue building for the future?
Team president Jeff Peterson has already signified his intent to continue to "push and get better" when asked earlier this month about his plans for the Hornets roster. With LaMelo Ball evolving into one of the best players in the league and injuries piling up, they could look at adding some reinforcements from the trade market.
Perhaps some conversations with the Chicago Bulls are in line. As NBA insider Jake Fischer wrote on Marc Stein's substack (subscription required), any discussion of sellers will always start with the Bulls, who have been stuck in limbo for several years now and have several veterans and youngsters to offer.
Hornets were reportedly lurking around the Bulls last summer
Some of the most notable names mentioned that the Bulls are looking to move are Nikola Vucevic, Zach LaVine, and Lonzo Ball. However, a different player was linked to the Hornets last offseason.
According to Fischer, Charlotte was among those who eyed Patrick Williams when he was still a restricted free agent.
The 23-year-old forward was a highly touted prospect coming into the 2020 draft, and as such, he was selected right after LaMelo Ball. His freakish athleticism and defensive upside made him turn a lot of eyes.
What has made Williams an even more intriguing player, though, is that he has proven to be an efficient outside scorer. He may lack the handles needed to become a star, but maybe his value lies in becoming an elite role player.
Based on his physique and skill set, Williams seems like a good fit with the Hornets. His 3-and-D abilities could make him the perfect complement to LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller, and he could seamlessly slot into either forward position. It's also worth noting that "P-Dub" is a North Carolina native, so there would be a sense of familiarity.
However, trading for Williams can be complicated after he signed a five-year, $90 million contract. Committing that amount of money to a player with a concerning injury history might not be attractive to a team already dealing with major health concerns.
What if the Hornets switch lanes and target another vet?
Lonzo Ball is also available, and LaVar Ball has hinted at something massive happening in Charlotte. The point guard has a higher salary than Williams, but he will be a free agent after this season, so there's not much money tied to LaMelo Ball's older brother. The former No. 2 pick would also address the Hive's need for another playmaker, giving the franchise more reason to consider acquiring him.