The Charlotte Hornets had a great season despite missing the playoffs for the 10th year in a row. The Hornets were one of the best teams when the calendar flipped to 2026, but they eventually fell short in the NBA Play-In Tournament. According to ESPN's Bobby Marks, the Hornets are in a great position for next season since they have 13 players under contract. They also have two first-round picks later this month and have the cap space to bring back Coby White. Marks named roster flexibility as their main priority, though Grant Hughes of Bleacher Report thought that the Hornets could use an upgrade at power forward. The Hornets have been linked to Domantas Sabonis of the Sacramento Kings, but it seems like they might be better off upgrading at power forward. Jabari Smith Jr. is a potential trade target for the Hornets, with Grant Hughes calling the pursuit ambitious since he's coming off a great season with the Houston Rockets. Smith played well in the regular season and was a bright spot in their disappointing first-round exit at the hands of the Los Angeles Lakers. Hughes argued that the Rockets are unlikely to trade Smith, but his fit with the Charlotte Hornets just makes sense. Smith is an upgrade on Miles Bridges, who is entering the final year of his current contract with the Hornets. The Hornets trio of LaMelo Ball, Kon Knueppel, and Brandon Miller are here to stay, so it's all about improving their frontcourt. Smith averaged 15.8 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 1.9 assists, while shooting 45.0% from the field, 36.3% from 3-point range, and 77.5% from the free-throw line. Zach Roberts of Sports Illustrated agreed with Grant Hughes regarding the Charlotte Hornets' need to upgrade at power forward. Roberts pitched a potential package to acquire Jabari Smith Jr. It will center around Miles Bridges or Grant Williams, while the addition of a combination of young prospects like Ryan Kalkbrenner, Liam McNeeley, and Tidjane Salaun would offset Smith's place in Houston. And to sweeten the deal, Roberts suggested adding a couple of first-round picks and several second-round selections. Salaun is thought of as a potential replacement for Bridges, but he has been inconsistent. He also has a player option for next season and could become a free agent this summer. The Charlotte Hornets are looking to improve their roster and have identified Jabari Smith Jr. as a potential trade target. With their young core and roster flexibility, the Hornets are in a great position to make a move and improve their chances of making the playoffs next season. The Hornets' front office will have to make some tough decisions, but with the right moves, they could be a playoff contender in the near future. The NBA offseason is always full of surprises, and the Charlotte Hornets are looking to make some noise. With their sights set on Jabari Smith Jr., the Hornets are looking to upgrade their roster and make a push for the playoffs.