Charlotte Hornets earned an A‑minus from NBA analyst Grant Hughes as they reshape the roster for the 2026‑27 season, a move highlighted by a 110‑96 win over the New York Knicks on April 12, 2026. The Hornets entered that game on a two‑game winning streak after a recent form of 2W‑0D‑3L.
What trades earned the grade?
The Hornets shipped LaMelo Ball and Josh Green to Minnesota for big man Naz Reid, then dealt Miles Bridges to Phoenix for guard Grayson Allen and wing Royce O'Neale. Hughes praised the “heist” of the Bridges‑Allen‑O'Neale deal, noting it added a 2033 first‑round pick and two versatile defenders. Reid, a 2023‑24 Sixth Man of the Year, brings a career average of 11.9 points, 5.1 rebounds and 1.5 assists per game, and will start for the first time under head coach Charles Lee.
Why the A‑minus matters for Charlotte Hornets
Hughes highlighted that Reid, the 2033 first‑rounder from Minnesota, and a re‑signed Coby White give Charlotte both short‑term firepower and a longer‑term ceiling. White, now under contract, will anchor the backcourt alongside rookie guard Brandon Miller, forward Kon Knueppel, and rookie forward‑center Moussa Diabaté. That five‑man rotation reads strong on paper and could push the Hornets back into playoff contention for the first time since 2016.
How the draft fits the puzzle
Charlotte selected Hannes Steinbach (14th overall) and Christian Anderson Jr. (18th overall) in this year's draft. Steinbach, a versatile wing from Washington, adds perimeter shooting, while Anderson brings defensive grit from Texas Tech. Both fit Lee’s emphasis on pick‑and‑roll execution and wing defense, giving the Hornets depth beyond the starting five.
What’s next for the Charlotte Hornets?
The upcoming season will test whether Reid can translate his 13.6 points, 6.2 rebounds and 2.2 assists per game from Minnesota into a starter’s role. His contract of $23,275,862 signals Charlotte’s intent to keep him despite other teams’ interest. Meanwhile, Coby White is expected to lead the offense, with Miller providing scoring bursts off the bench. If the Hornets can sustain the two‑game winning run that capped their recent form, they could finish above .500 and finally break the playoff drought.
The Hornets’ front office appears to have a clear roadmap: blend proven talent, high‑upside rookies, and future assets. As the NBA season approaches, Charlotte fans will watch closely to see if the A‑minus grade translates into wins on the court.