Hornets Receive Trade Interest for No. 4 Pick Amid Prospects’ Workout Reluctance

The Charlotte Hornets hold the No. 4 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft but face significant challenges as many top prospects, including Rutgers' Ace Bailey, V.J. Edgecombe, and others, have declined to work out for the team, raising concerns about the franchise's culture and credibility. While Bailey remains a coveted player, his selective approach to workouts and reported friction with several teams, including the Hornets, may cause him to slide down the draft board. The Hornets have shown interest in versatile players like Duke's Kon Knueppel, who is the only top prospect to have worked out for them, and are also considering guards such as Jeremiah Fears to complement star LaMelo Ball, although Fears has not worked out with the team either. Multiple teams, including the Brooklyn Nets, Washington Wizards, and New Orleans Pelicans, have expressed interest in the No. 4 pick, putting pressure on Charlotte to consider trade options, especially given the Nets' leverage with five first-round picks. The Hornets' draft strategy remains uncertain amid the drama, with the possibility they might trade the pick or choose a less risky, more cooperative prospect to avoid further issues. This turmoil underscores the Hornets' ongoing struggles to rebuild and attract talent in a pivotal draft moment.