The Charlotte Hornets are generating buzz as a potential surprise team for the 2026-27 NBA season, a projection that gains weight with their recent on-court form.
Why are the Hornets seen as a surprise team?
Charlotte earned a spot on an ESPN list of teams most likely to make a major leap this coming season. The Hornets received 10 points in the ranking, tying them with the Portland Trail Blazers for seventh place. They finished behind the Atlanta Hawks, Philadelphia 76ers, Dallas Mavericks, Washington Wizards, Utah Jazz, and Indiana Pacers in that survey. While their total was lower than the 46 points earned by both Indiana and Utah, simply being included ahead of several other franchises is significant. The list specifically looks for teams that could surprise people with a big jump in performance.
For a team that finished 19-63 last season, even being in this conversation is a positive step. It gives the franchise a real chance to change the perception surrounding it. Analyst Anne Erickson noted the Hornets could be one of the league's more exciting teams if they take the kind of step forward that has been projected. They aren't expected to make the absolute biggest jump, but they're getting looks as a possible surprise. That alone should make the upcoming season a hopeful one in Charlotte.
What does their recent performance indicate?
The Hornets' recent results provide a tangible foundation for this optimism. Their 110-96 victory over the New York Knicks on April 12, 2026, was a solid performance to end the season. This kind of momentum, however small, is something to build on during the offseason.
Building a consistent winning culture is the next challenge. Fans can track the team's progress and upcoming schedule on our schedule page. The key will be translating late-season sparks into a hotter start for the 2026-27 campaign. Player development and health will be huge factors in determining if this surprise potential becomes reality.
How can Charlotte fulfill this potential?
Fulfilling this potential requires internal growth from their young core and strategic roster moves. The Hornets' path isn't about topping the league in improvement overnight. It's about showing clear, substantial progress that exceeds outside expectations. The ESPN ranking suggests league observers see the pieces for such growth in place.
Coach Steve Clifford and his staff will have a full offseason to work on schemes and player development. Integrating talent and improving on both the perimeter and in the paint will be essential. The team's offensive execution and defensive rating need to climb. If key players stay healthy and take individual steps forward, the Hornets could very well be the talk of the Eastern Conference.
