Charlotte Hornets Navigate Trades, Top 2025 Draft Picks, NBA Combine Prospects

The Charlotte Hornets are actively shaping their roster through trades and the upcoming 2025 NBA Draft, with a focus on improving their defensive capabilities and wing depth. They recently acquired Josh Okogie and Jusuf Nurkic from the Phoenix Suns but may trade them due to contract considerations and team strategy, especially as they are satisfied with the development of younger players like Mark Williams and Moussa Diabate. A key prospect attracting attention is V.J. Edgecombe, a Baylor player known for his defensive tenacity and athleticism, who has impressed at the NBA Draft Combine and is projected as a potential top-four pick by the Hornets. Edgecombe’s defensive mindset and versatility align with Charlotte’s need to bolster a defense that ranked 27th last season, offering a promising fit as the team rebuilds around stars LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller. His presence at the combine and positive buzz from team insiders underscore the Hornets' intent to prioritize defense and two-way play in their draft strategy. Overall, the Hornets appear poised to blend young talent and strategic acquisitions to redefine their team identity moving forward.