Not a lot of people are expecting the Charlotte Hornets to suddenly be a top team in the Eastern Conference. On the other hand, it wouldn't be a complete surprise if they show up in the postseason. Perhaps if they acquired a bruising big man with a mean streak, they would have a better chance at fielding at least a more intimidating squad.
Of course, such an addition would not assure the Hornets' improvement. However, having an enforcer-type player could be beneficial for their stars, especially LaMelo Ball, whose flamboyant style of play can sometimes annoy opponents.
As reiterated many times, Charlotte is quite thin at center and power forward. And to be frank, none of their options at both positions look equipped to be a menacing presence for the club. Perhaps Grant Williams could take on the role, but his physique is more suited to that of a small forward. Taj Gibson would have been ideal again, but his advanced age and declining skills made it tough for the coaching staff to put him on the floor last season.
In the Hornets' defense, there aren't many enforcers nowadays, as league rules have unofficially outlawed those kinds of players. Even so, there are still bruisers who can instill fear in some opponents.
There aren't many options for Hornets
An intriguing choice for Charlotte would have been Isaiah Stewart, as his defense and toughness should provide the team with a significant boost in those areas. Offense would be a problem because of his limited bag. It's all moot, though, because the Detroit Pistons are also a bit undermanned at the power forward and center slots entering the 2025-26 regular season.
Guerschon Yabusele could have been a solid addition this summer, but the Hornets didn't appear to be interested when he was still a free agent. He joined the New York Knicks and has popped up as a leader for France's national squad at EuroBasket. Not only would the bruising 29-year-old have been a massive help on the floor for Charlotte, but he also could have been a positive presence for its French youngsters, Moussa Diabate and Tidjane Salaun.
As it stands, the Hornets have limited roster options, as they even need to let go of a couple of guys to bring the roster size down to 15.
Maybe next year, the organization will consider bringing in such a player, although the likely route it will take is to seek high-character individuals instead. There's no problem with that, but it would be nice if the Hornets had someone who could protect their stars on the floor.