With another All-Star Game in the books, it's time to shift attention to the second half of the NBA season and the March 25 trade deadline. The Charlotte Hornets should attempt to be as active as possible before the deadline given their standing in the Eastern Conference playoff race. Adding some size or another wing could benefit the Hornets down the stretch of the season as they try to make a run at the playoffs.
Here are a few names the Hornets should target as the trade deadline swiftly approaches.
3. Victor Oladipo
Victor Oladipo might be a long shot to be dealt to Charlotte, but he would be quite the interesting acquisition. Despite being traded to the Houston Rockets earlier this season, the rumor mill has been buzzing about Oladipo wanting to play for the Miami Heat. Oladipo is set to hit free agency at the end of this season, so he could potentially choose to take his talents to South Beach in 2021.
So, why should the Hornets take a chance in this situation? It is always possible for Oladipo to change his mind. LaMelo Ball's current teammates rave about him by calling him “one of one” and “the next big thing,” which gives off the notion that they would not mind playing alongside this kid for years to come. Oladipo could become a believer of Ball's talents and his potential to grow even more if he is dealt to Buzz City.
However, the Hornets would have to be careful about giving up too much given the possibility Oladipo bolts in the offseason.
2. Andre Drummond
Andre Drummond hasn't been playing as the Cleveland Cavaliers try to find a trade. If no trade comes to fruition, there's a good chance Drummond gets bought out, making him free to go elsewhere ahead of his free agency in the offseason. The Los Angeles Lakers and Brooklyn Nets are viewed as top suitors if Drummond is bought out, with the Lakers confident in their chances of acquiring his services.
While those destinations are more enticing, the Hornets could potentially try to work out a trade to beat them to the punch. Charlotte could also try to woo Drummond if he's bought out. Inserting him in the middle would instantly make Charlotte a playoff contender. While the 27-year-old has his flaws, a motivated Drummond is a beast on the boards and an impactful defensive presence in the middle, which the Hornets could use.
Being paired up with the likes of Terry Rozier and LaMelo Ball in the backcourt sounds like a match made in heaven, but even more importantly, it would improve Charlotte's chances in the Eastern Conference.
1. Nikola Vucevic
Nikola Vucevic should be the Hornets' No. 1 target before the trade deadline, and they've reportedly expressed their interest already. Fresh off his second career All-Star appearance, he is averaging 24.6 points, 11.6 rebounds, and 3.7 assists while shooting a career-best 41.2 percent from deep. He can do just about everything for an offense and has carried the load for the Orlando Magic over the past few seasons.
Pairing a versatile big with LaMelo Ball would create a dangerous pick-and-roll duo in Charlotte, especially since Vucevic can space the floor. Of course, the Hornets would have to give up quite a bit to get the Magic's best player, but it would be a good short- and long-term move.
Vucevic's contract would lock him in with Charlotte on a reasonable contract through 2022-23. Pairing him and Ball together for the next couple of years would be fun to watch.
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