Hornets Could Make Playoff Push Behind Young Core in 2026–27 Season
· Yahoo Sports
The Charlotte Hornets retooled their roster this offseason, trading away All-Star guard LaMelo Ball among other moves.
The Hornets have made it clear they are building around Kon Knueppel and Brandon Miller with the moves they've made this offseason.
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Knueppel was impressive in his rookie season, as he averaged 18.5 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game, shooting 47.5 percent from the field and 42.5 percent from three. He finished as the runner-up for the Rookie of the Year Award behind Cooper Flagg.
He proved to be one of the best three-point shooters in the league and a go-to scoring option for the Hornets.
Miller also had a solid impact in his third season in the league, averaging 20.2 points, 4.9 rebounds, 3.3 assists, and a steal per game, shooting 43.5 percent from the floor and 38.3 percent from behind the arc.
He is emerging as a quality-scoring forward and will have a bigger role leading Charlotte's offense next season.
IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters ConnectAnother key piece on offense will be guard Coby White, whom the Hornets retained in free agency on a three-year, $74 million deal. White had a solid 2025-26 season, averaging 17.4 points, 3.4 rebounds, and four assists while shooting 44.6 percent from the field and 36.2 percent from distance.
White will take over as the starting point guard after Charlotte traded away Ball earlier this offseason. He has proven to be an efficient scorer, but will need to elevate his game as a playmaker in his new role.
The other additions for the Hornets include Naz Reid, Hannes Steinbach, Dennis Schroder, Christian Anderson, Grayson Allen, and Royce O'Neale.
It's a very young roster with a mix of veterans who could be solid pieces for Charlotte. While it's an unproven team, they have the depth and talent to compete for a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference.
The Hornets won't be a title contender, but they will factor into the playoff picture in the East. Head coach Charles Lee has established a clear identity with the team, and a year after their Play-In Tournament appearance, they are poised to be competitive with their new roster.