The Charlotte Hornets had an underwhelming season in 2023. They finished 27-55 and are now looking forward to the draft lottery. LaMelo Ball only played in 36 games, which made it hard for them to remain competitive.
Several fans and NBA insiders are suspecting that Ball could attempt to force his way out if the team doesn't show signs of improvement- and fast. After missing out on free agency over the past few seasons and losing Miles Bridges to some personal matters, the team took a step back.
Ball had a simple message when the media addressed his possible intentions of leaving Charlotte during the Hornets exit interviews, revealing what it would take for him to stay.
“The main thing is winning. Life is better when you win, so pretty much the main thing is definitely winning.”
It is a very simple response, but it will be tough for the Hornets to fulfill their franchise player's wishes.
There are steps that they have to take to get to a point where they can win more games and force their way into the playoffs. Hitting on the draft, signing impact free agents, and continuing to build a stable culture for young players to grow in is key.
Steve Clifford's hire was criticized by many, but it wasn't as terrible as the record may indicate. The Hornets ended the season on a high note. They went 10-12 after the All-Star break and had the second highest defensive rating at one point as well. It's not much, but a step in the right direction.
This could be the most important offseason in franchise history. LaMelo Ball has the potential to be the franchise's greatest player if they can retain him and keep him happy. They have to put the best talent available around him by any means necessary.
As presently constructed, the Hornets cannot hope keep Ball, let alone attract anyone else to come play with him. If they are able to land the number one pick in the 2023 NBA Draft, everyone knows that Victor Wembanyama will be the first name off the board.
If Charlotte is lucky enough to land that pick and pair up Wemby with Ball, we might look at Charlotte as playoff team immediately. One of the league's best point guards paired up with arguably the best prospect in NBA history would be one hell of a start.
Even if they land Scoot Henderson or one of the Thompson twins, this team will be in good shape. Hopefully everyone in Charlotte is praying for a top three pick this summer.
They currently have the fourth best odds at the number one pick behind the Detroit Pistons, Houston Rockets, and San Antonio Spurs. All we can do is wait and see.
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