Charlotte Hornets Secure Multiple First-Round NBA Draft Picks

The Charlotte Hornets made notable moves in the 2025 NBA Draft, selecting sharpshooter Kon Knueppel from Duke with the No. 4 pick and acquiring UConn forward Liam McNeeley at No. 29 after trading center Mark Williams to the Phoenix Suns. McNeeley, praised as a potential sleeper pick with versatility and a high basketball IQ, complements the Hornets' effort to address multiple team needs including shooting, rebounding, and defense. Despite trading away their top center, the Hornets retained Jusuf Nurkic and Moussa Diabate to fill frontcourt roles, though questions remain about their stability in that position. The team also holds back-to-back second-round picks (Nos. 33 and 34) and has generated significant trade buzz, with executive VP Jeff Peterson leading a strategic reshaping of the roster. Additionally, the Hornets received Serbian veteran Vasilije Micic back in the Williams trade, ensuring his guaranteed contract for the next season, though his future with the team is uncertain. Overall, Charlotte's draft and trade activity signal a clear intent to rebuild around young talent while navigating roster challenges and trade opportunities.