Hornets Offseason Likely to Feature Bold Moves Towards a Rebuild originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
The Charlotte Hornets have hit rock bottom, but that’s not always a bad thing. With only 19 wins last season and a top-5 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, the franchise finds itself at a pivotal turning point. While fans dream of lottery luck and future stars, the Hornets must also get aggressive this offseason. There are real opportunities to land young, expensive difference-makers who can turn this rebuild into something real.
Brooklyn Nets forward Cam Johnson (2).Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images
Cam Johnson is a Homegrown Fit
Let’s start with the dream scenario, Johnson. The UNC product checks nearly every box: size, shooting, defense, and familiarity with the Carolinas. Johnson averaged 13.4 points and shot 39.7% from deep last season for Brooklyn. He’s an elite 3-and-D wing and still just 28. His contract ($23.6M in 2025) is steep, but if Brooklyn pivots toward a rebuild, the Hornets should pick up the phone.
Jan 1, 2024; Houston, Texas, USA; Detroit Pistons guard Cade Cunningham (2) drives with the ball as Houston Rockets forward Jabari Smith Jr. (10) defends during the first quarter at Toyota Center. © Troy Taormina-Imagn Images
Jabari Smith Jr. is a Stretch Four With All-Star Potential
Smith Jr. is the kind of player who could transform the Hornets’ frontcourt. A modern big who defends, rebounds, and shoots, Smith averaged 13.7 points and 8.1 rebounds for Houston while improving his three-point shot to 36.3%. The cost would be high, but with a clear need at power forward, Charlotte should inquire if he becomes available.
Jan 12, 2024; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Golden State Warriors forward Jonathan Kuminga (00) dribbles during the first half against the Chicago Bulls at United Center.© Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images
Jonathan Kuminga Could be The Athletic Scorer in Charlotte
Kuminga may be on the verge of a breakout. The 21-year-old averaged 16.1 points in just 26 minutes per game in Golden State’s system. His explosive athleticism and isolation scoring would thrive next to LaMelo Ball. If the Warriors look to reshape their core, Kuminga should be near the top of Charlotte’s wish list.
Philadelphia 76ers guard Quentin Grimes reacts after making a basket against the Houston Rockets.Troy Taormina-Imagn Images
Quentin Grimes the Two-Way Guard Built for the Hornets
Grimes flashed serious upside with the Sixers after being traded midseason, averaging 21.9 points and 5.2 assists in the final month. The 24-year-old is a gritty defender with scoring upside. He could be an ideal sixth man or potential starter in Charlotte’s rotation. He won’t be cheap as an RFA, but smart money says he’s worth the risk.
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Related: Op-Ed: Hornets Trading LaMelo to LA Would be Most Diabolical Move Ever
What’s Next?
With limited cap space and no clear superstar acquisition on the horizon, the Hornets’ best path forward is savvy, aggressive moves for ascending talent. It’s time to think long-term, but act decisively. Jeff Peterson, you’re on the clock.
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on May 30, 2025, where it first appeared.