Our Hornets' Offseason Grade Is In — And It’s Not What You’d Expect

Hornets 2025 Draft Pick

For the first time in a while, it feels like the Hornets have a plan, and they’re sticking to it. The 2025 NBA Draft made that clear. Instead of chasing another “franchise guy,” Charlotte focused on adding players who complement Brandon Miller and LaMelo Ball. Kon Knueppel at No. 4 was a smart pickup; he brings size, shooting, and plays well off the ball. But the real steal might be Liam McNeeley. The Hornets got him by trading Mark Williams, and honestly, McNeeley could be the spark off the bench this team has been missing. Alongside Sion James and Ryan Kalkbrenner, the Hornets came away from draft night with several high-IQ players who can make an impact in different ways. 

Speaking of the Mark Williams trade, it was probably time. I liked Mark, but he never really became the defensive anchor we hoped for. Moving him brought back not just McNeeley but also another future first-round pick. Sure, we’re a little thin at center now, but this move was more about the future, and it’s a future that looks a lot brighter with versatile young talent coming in. Williams was--unfortunately--never able to consistently stay on the floor for the Hornets, and flipping him for a better long-term fit is the kind of move that smart front offices make. 

Tre Mann

Free agency was solid, too. Re-signing Tre Mann was huge. I know he’s coming off a tough back injury, but I’m happy the team kept faith in him. When healthy, Tre’s a dynamic guard who can handle the ball, hit shots, and give the second unit a boost. If the Hornets are going to make a leap this season, Tre is going to have to be a big part of that. He fits perfectly with the team’s young core and has a real chance to grow alongside them. 

Colin Sexton

Then there’s Collin Sexton. This might be the most underrated move of the whole offseason. He brings grit, defense, and veteran leadership, exactly what this young roster needs. He’s not going to wow you with highlight plays every night, but he plays hard, defends well, and knows how to compete. Having a guy like Sexton in the locker room could be huge for the development of guys like Tre, Knueppel, and McNeeley. Plus, his ability to play both guard spots gives the team valuable flexibility. 

On top of those moves, the Hornets also brought back Mason Plumlee on a one-year deal and signed veteran wing Pat Connaughton after a smaller trade. These aren’t flashy names, but they add depth and experience, something this team has sorely lacked in past seasons. Plumlee knows the system and can provide steady minutes at the five, especially given the lack of big-man depth post-Williams. Connaughton adds shooting and hustle, and he's a guy who's been in big playoff moments. These small signings show that the front office is thinking strategically about the roster, not just chasing talent but filling real needs. 

Jeff Peterson

Overall, the Hornets put together a smart, well-rounded offseason. They didn’t try to overcorrect or chase a new identity. Instead, they committed to building around their stars, added useful veterans, and brought in young talent with upside. It feels like the organization finally has a clear direction. For that reason, I’d give the Hornets’ offseason a solid A-. There's still work to be done, especially at the center position, but this is the most optimistic I’ve felt about this team in years.

Images: Hornets & Charlotte Observer & Sports Illustrated & News Week