The Charlotte Hornets are making it clear: they’re ready to retool and compete in the Eastern Conference. Their latest move? Acquiring guard Collin Sexton in a trade that sends Jusuf Nurkić the other way. This shakeup boosts the Hornets’ backcourt and likely ends Tre Mann’s stint after he declined his $6.94 million tender.
Sexton, fresh off a strong season with averages of 18.4 points and efficient 48/40/86 shooting splits, brings a scoring jolt the Hornets have lacked. Nurkić, meanwhile, played a limited role, averaging 9.2 points and 6.5 boards in 26 games. Both players are on expiring deals — Sexton at $18.9 million, Nurkić at $19.3 million — but the message is clear: the Hornets are prioritizing offense and urgency.
So what does Sexton’s arrival say about the Hornets’ direction? And what exactly does he add to this evolving roster? Let’s dive in.
Sexton’s Intensity Is Like No Other
In seven NBA seasons, Sexton has never averaged fewer than 11 points per game, boasting a career line of 18.8 points on 47% shooting and 38.7% from three-point range. But beyond the stats, it’s his relentless motor that sets him apart.
Sexton plays every possession like it matters — regardless of score, opponent, or moment. While his fiery demeanor has occasionally been mocked online, that level of intensity is precisely what this Hornets team has lacked.
Under head coach Charles Lee, who emphasizes accountability and effort, Sexton’s mentality isn’t just welcome — it’s necessary. He brings an edge the Hornets haven’t had in years, and his no-nonsense style could set the locker room’s tone.
Fit With The Hornets
Sexton brings scoring punch and intensity that could complement LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller. His ability to play off the ball and shoot efficiently gives Ball more space to operate as the lead playmaker. Sexton’s aggressive downhill style also contrasts nicely with Miller’s smoother, more methodical approach.
Together, the trio could form a balanced scoring attack with Sexton serving as a secondary creator and transition weapon when Ball sits or defenses key in on Miller.
Should He Start Or Not?
While Sexton’s scoring ability is valuable, fitting him next to two rising stars requires buy-in. Both he and Ball are most comfortable with the ball in their hands, which can lead to overlap if roles aren’t clearly defined. For a smooth transition, Sexton must embrace a complementary role, especially with Miller as the franchise’s lead scorer.
Coming off the bench could be a game-changer for the Hornets’ second unit. His scoring ability, energy, and aggression would give the Hornets a reliable offensive spark without disrupting the flow of the starting lineup. In a sixth-man role, Sexton could operate with more freedom, control tempo, and attack weaker defensive matchups.
Hornets Building For A Run
After a season derailed by injuries, the Hornets are finally getting healthy, and that alone could dramatically shift their outlook. Key players are set to return, and when combined with a promising draft class that added versatile, sharp-shooting wings and a rim-protecting center, the Hornets suddenly have the foundation to support Ball and Miller more effectively.
While the offseason is still unfolding, expect the Hornets to stay aggressive in shaping a roster built for balance and depth. But the key is simple: staying healthy. The talent is already in place. If this group stays healthy, the Hornets could make a real push in the open Eastern Conference.
In Conclusion
Collin Sexton brings a much-needed spark and scoring punch to the Hornets, injecting energy and intensity into a young roster. His aggressive style and improved shooting can provide a vital offensive boost, especially if he adapts to a complementary role alongside LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller. Sexton’s ability to start or come off the bench gives the Hornets flexibility in minutes and offense.
However, his long-term impact will depend on how well he adapts to team defense and integrates within the Hornets’ system. If Sexton balances scoring, playmaking, and effort, he could be key to the Hornets’ growth and competitiveness.
