Entering the 2024-25 NBA season, the Charlotte Hornets are rethinking their approach, blending cautious optimism with a focus on foundational growth. Under new ownership led by Gabe Plotkin and Rick Schnall, and with a talented young French prospect, Tidjane Salaun, on board, the Hornets are positioning themselves with a long-term vision. These offseason moves are not just about immediate performance but about setting the stage for future success.
LaMelo Ball’s Health: A Crucial Factor for Success
LaMelo Ball’s ankle injury last season left the Hornets floundering, with the young star limited to just 22 games. His absence highlighted his indispensable role, as Charlotte finished with only 21 wins.
Ball’s health and consistency will be critical, not only for individual performances but also for team morale. His return as the franchise’s sole All-Star is vital if the Hornets are to break their eight-year playoff drought. With a renewed coaching staff and management, Ball also faces expectations to elevate his leadership, providing stability and guidance for this young, evolving roster.
Brandon Miller’s Breakout Rookie Season
Selected as the No. 2 pick, Brandon Miller was a standout during his rookie season, averaging 17.3 points per game. His versatile scoring and maturity made him an immediate scoring option, even amid the struggles the team faced without Ball.
Miller’s All-Rookie honors set a high standard for his sophomore season, with the Hornets relying on him to take a further leap. His growth will be essential as Charlotte looks to build a competitive foundation, hoping to turn individual talent into team success.
New Ownership: Plotkin, Schnall, and Peterson’s Vision
With Gabe Plotkin and Rick Schnall officially in charge, the Hornets gained both financial muscle and a fresh strategic direction. Bringing in Jeff Peterson to lead the front office signals a commitment to smarter decision-making. Charles Lee, replacing Steve Clifford as head coach, brings experience from championship-winning franchises like the Bucks and Celtics.
Known for his focus on player development and accountability, Lee’s task will be to instill a culture that supports growth, allowing the Hornets to gradually build a stronger identity on and off the court.
Miles Bridges: Charlotte’s Top Performer
Last season, Miles Bridges emerged as Charlotte’s most complete player, averaging 21 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game. At 26, his skills and physical prime made a three-year contract extension a logical move for the Hornets.
However, Bridges’ off-court issues remain a concern. Missing the entire 2022-23 season due to legal troubles and facing a suspension at the start of the 2023-24 season, his future depends on both his performance and personal conduct, making his role crucial yet complex for the Hornets.
Introducing Tidjane Salaun: A Dynamic French Prospect
The Hornets’ No. 6 overall pick, Tidjane Salaun, brings a blend of size and skill at 6-foot-9 and just 19 years old. Recognized for his flexibility and potential, Salaun is a long-term investment for Charlotte. His immediate focus will be on the player development program, with the organization viewing him as a future contributor rather than an immediate impact player.
With his unique skill set, Salaun has the potential to become a significant piece in the Hornets’ future lineup.
Fresh Start for Josh Green
Acquired via trade from the Dallas Mavericks, Josh Green arrives with untapped potential but a need to prove himself. Green’s inconsistency limited his role in Dallas, but Charlotte offers him a fresh opportunity. With merit-based rotation policies in place, Green has the chance to carve out a role and add depth to the roster. If he can harness his skill set, he could become a valuable contributor in Charlotte’s rebuilding efforts.
Player Development at the Heart of Charlotte’s Strategy
Charlotte’s approach to the 2024-25 season revolves around development rather than playoff aspirations. Young players like Miller, Ball, and Seth Curry will be at the core of this growth-centered focus. The emphasis will be on individual improvement, with an eye on positioning the Hornets for another high draft pick in 2025.
Caesars Sportsbook North Carolina betting adds to the thrill for fans tracking every moment of the Charlotte Hornets’ promising season, alongside Cleveland, Denver, and Boston’s potential playoff chase, and other top teams eyeing the NBA Finals.
Veteran Additions: Taj Gibson and Anton Watson
To add balance and experience, the Hornets brought in seasoned veteran Taj Gibson through free agency. While Gibson’s on-court role may be minimal, his presence in the locker room provides leadership and stability, crucial for a young team.
Anton Watson also joins the roster, bringing athleticism and potential. While his minutes may be limited initially, Watson could compete for more significant playing time as the season unfolds, adding depth to the Hornets’ bench.
A Season Focused on Growth and Building
For the Hornets, the 2024-25 season is more about laying a strong foundation than chasing playoff spots. With new leadership, strategic player acquisitions, and promising young talents like Tidjane Salaun, Charlotte aims to create a roster capable of future success.
The challenges are evident—a first-year head coach, a largely unproven roster, and only one former All-Star in Ball. However, if development remains the focus, the Hornets could be setting themselves up for a brighter future, potentially ending their prolonged playoff drought in the coming years.
