The Charlotte Hornets are in a position where they probably shouldn't try to fully tank again. This team needs vets and needs mentorship out on the court, and simply need more talented players. They have had too many problems with player injuries and maturity issues. One of those are handled in this offseason.
Trade #1. LaVine to Charlotte
Hornets get: Zach Lavine Kings get: Jusuf Nurkic, Grant Williams, Nick Smith Jr, #34, 2027 Mavs first 3-14 protected (because mavericks have it top 2 protected) I understand the questions. Why should this team trade picks for a win now player? Well the first disclaimer is, trading for Bradley Beal would be better because then you likely just have to give up a second or two and salary filler. However, I am operating under the expectation he would decline his no trade clause. LaVine is the next man up for me. Spoiler alert, with the Hornets likely drafting Edgecombe, I think it'd be a good smart change to give there draft pick a good player to mentor him on and off the court. LaVine can also help this team win, showcasing his super talented scoring ability mostly with Chicago this year, but also Sacramento. He can help them fight for a back end playoff spot, which is something these guys need to see.
Trade #2 Add a vet in Cory Joseph
Hornets get: Cory Joseph Magic get: Daquan Jefferies, 2031 Nuggets 2nd protected 31-45
Super small trade, just gets the Hornets another veteran in the locker room who still has a little bit of good ball left in him. He can be a backup PG when injuries occur, and can help mentor some of the young guys
Draft
4 VJ Edgecombe
The obvious pick with Flagg,Harper,Bailey off the board, as Edgecombe is a freak athlete that has so much potential. Played very well at Baylor this season, and also was on the Olympic stage with the Bahamas.
33 Dink Pate
The Hornets get themselves another one of those developmental guys. Dink can go back to the G-League, where he played 2 seasons.
Resignings
Tre Mann
This is a must, as he has played very well when healthy as an offensive microwave off the bench. Defense is lacking, but the Hornets can get him back on a nice team friendly deal because of the injuries and lack of a huge picture of hooping.
Starters
PG: LaMelo Ball SG: Zach LaVine SF: Brandon Miller PF: Miles Bridges C: Mark Williams
Bench: Tre Mann, VJ Edgecombe, Josh green, Tijane Salaun, Moussa Diabate, Cory Joseph, Josh Okogie
With this team, Charlotte could actually compete for a back end playoff spot, while bringing in maturity and skilled players.