The Charlotte Hornets face a pivotal moment as they head into the 2024-25 NBA season. After a dismal 10-40 start last season, the team initiated a significant overhaul, trading away veterans Gordon Hayward and P.J. Washington in exchange for talents like Tre Mann, Grant Williams, Vasilije Micić, Dāvis Bertāns, and Aleksej Pokusevski. The Hornets’ 11-21 finish hinted at an identity shift toward youth, versatility, and more significant potential.
Building on the foundation laid by those midseason trades, the Hornets made several bold moves in the offseason to continue reshaping their culture. They brought in a proven winner in Josh Green, selected the promising forward Tidjane Salaun with the 6th overall pick, and re-signed Miles Bridges to solidify their core. With a new front office and coaching staff, the team looks to rise from the Eastern Conference basement and rebuild.
However, the road ahead remains challenging. The Hornets face a demanding schedule early in the season and a series of formidable opponents throughout the year. While there is optimism about the team’s direction, many believe that the Hornets may still fall short of a playoff berth. If that is the case, Charlotte could capitalize on some of its assets by moving players who might attract interest from contending teams. Which players could become valuable trade targets? Let’s dive into it.
Four Hornets Trade Candidates If Season Doesn’t Go As Planned
Grant Williams
Acquired from the Dallas Mavericks last season, Grant Williams immediately elevated the Hornets’ leadership and defensive intensity. While the team’s defense still ranked among the league’s worst, Williams’ presence improved their defensive cohesion. He aims to bring the same grit this season while providing more consistent perimeter shooting. For teams in need of a reliable 3-and-D player, Williams’ remaining $45 million contract over three years is quite favorable. His defensive skills and shooting could bring the Hornets valuable draft capital or players, either young or on expiring deals.
Vasilije Micić
The Hornets are loaded with depth at the guard position, making Vasilije Micić a potential trade asset. After being traded from the Oklahoma City Thunder, Micić contributed 10.8 points and 6.2 assists per game last season. However, with LaMelo Ball’s return, the addition of Green, and the increased roles of Nick Smith Jr. and Mann, Micić might struggle to find minutes in the rotation. Teams needing a steady playmaker might see Micić as valuable, allowing the Hornets to trade him for picks or assets.
Josh Green
Josh Green’s stint with the Hornets might be brief, depending on how the season unfolds. Acquired as part of the trade that sent Klay Thompson to the Dallas Mavericks, Green is expected to bolster Charlotte’s perimeter defense and three-point shooting. His ability to guard some of the league’s top perimeter players makes him an intriguing target for contenders looking to strengthen their defense. With the league’s focus on versatile defenders, strong early performances could lead to trade inquiries about Green.
Cody Martin
Cody Martin has been a steady contributor for the Hornets, known for his defense and three-point shooting. As the longest-tenured player, his experience and versatility could appeal to a playoff contender. However, teams will need to weigh his injury history carefully—Martin has only appeared in 35 games over the past few seasons, which could be a red flag for potential suitors. Nonetheless, for a team willing to take the risk, Martin could provide solid value as a rotational piece.
In Conclusion
The Charlotte Hornets enter the 2024-25 season with a roster full of intriguing talent and potential trade assets. While they aim to climb from the Eastern Conference’s bottom, their playoff path remains uncertain.
Should their playoff aspirations falter, they possess several players—like Grant Williams, Vasilije Micić, Josh Green, and Cody Martin—who could attract interest from contenders looking to bolster their rosters for a deep playoff run. The Hornets could gain valuable draft picks and assets by making strategic trades, strengthening their rebuild for long-term success. Charlotte’s front office must balance seeking immediate improvement with continuing to build for the future this season.
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