Most championship squads in the NBA have a roster deep enough to keep them healthy in the regular season and give them more weapons in the playoffs.
Of course, the Charlotte Hornets are still far from being a title contender. However, if that's the long-term goal, it's imperative for the team to build a roster comprised of a competitive starting five and several players off the bench to help form an effective rotation.
Leading the way at the opening tip-off are likely going to be LaMelo Ball, Brandon Miller, Miles Bridges, and Mark Williams. Who nabs the fifth spot remains a mystery, but all signs point to Josh Green getting the nod.
Hornets' bench can be a strength if the players are healthy
The starting five has the potential to be an elite group, especially if it can consummate coach Charles Lee's fast-paced offensive philosophy and if it buys in on defense, which has been a point of emphasis for the franchise all summer long.
It's worth noting that the second unit can also be as formidable because the reserves bring a lot to the table.
Lee has offered massive praises for the Hornets' backcourt duo off the bench, Vasilije Micic and Tre Mann. Interestingly, both started at least 21 games for the squad after landing in Charlotte in a midseason trade and have shown solid shot-creating and playmaking aptitudes. According to the 39-year-old coach, they can take the pressure off the presumed starters.
In addition to the former Oklahoma City Thunder guards, the Hornets have a promising combo guard in Nick Smith Jr. and a lights-out and confident sharpshooter in Seth Curry.
At the frontcourt, Lee has various options off the bench, including Cody Martin, Grant Williams, and Nick Richards. Martin and Grant Williams will be looked upon to provide the team with toughness, defense, and leadership. Meanwhile, Richards is an ideal second-string center, as evidenced by the energetic fifth-year pro's rim-running, rim-protection, and rebounding abilities.
Even rookie Tidjane Salaun, one of the youngest players in the league today, looks ready to contribute right away as long as he can channel his energy correctly. At the other end of the spectrum is Taj Gibson, who is one of the oldest active NBA players. The veteran may not see much playing time, but his locker-room leadership will surely be key to Charlotte's success.
The most significant obstacle to the Hornets' bench mob is the possibility of the injury bug biting the crew hard again. Martin and Mark Williams are already two of the casualties, as both have sustained injuries in the offseason.
Hopefully, the team won't have to deal with it in a major way once the regular season starts because essential rotation pieces missing contests would leave Lee with no choice but to ditch his preferred lineups.