Charlotte and long-time general manager, Nick has returned from his sabbatical and went straight back to work in the resurrection league. Charlotte was gifted with the fourth pick in the original league draft. With almost all the options in front of you at that early stage in the draft, Nick decided to go for youth and longevity by selecting rookie sensation Luka Doncic. The decision is very hard to fault, as Luka had put up one of the most impressive rookie seasons in recent history. His love for the game and his teammates is obvious and contagious, a great person to be the franchise pillar.

With how talented he is already, you could still build a contending roster around him, if that’s the direction chosen. Charlotte however chose to go in the opposite direction. Filling almost every roster spot with youth and upside. With their next few picks selecting Wendell Carter Jnr, Caris LeVert, Justice Winslow and Lonnie Walker.

The core and future of the franchise has an average age of 21.6, so assuming these players stay at the club, there is a bright and long future ahead for the franchise. High numbers in the wins category might not be pouring in straight away, but give these kids time.

Keanu Reeves Movie Comparison: Hardball – A motley crew of kids, banding together for the love of the game through trials and tribulations. Can they realise their potential and reach their drams of making it to the 'ship or will it be a sad fate like G-Baby. 

                      

Best Player –

Without a doubt this goes to Luka Doncic. You could have easily mistaken Luka for a 10 year veteran after watching him play his rookie season.  His poise, control, leadership and finish was incredible for someone in their first NBA season. Sky’s the limit might actually be selling him a bit short.

Keanu Reeves Movie Comparison: The Matrix – Luka is the chosen one. Displaying in his one season that he believes in the prophecy. 

Break Out Player –

This could be any number of Charlotte’s top order. Obviously before his injury Caris LeVert was having a breakout season. Justice Winslow has begun to show more, especially with his play making.

I would however have to go with Wendell Carter Jnr, who although had an injury plagued rookie season, still showed some flashes of great potential.  He will not be short of opportunity so if he can remain healthy he should be able to put together a very nice season. Could end up an all-round stud of a big man.

Keanu Reeves Movie Comparison:  Speed - we have all seen the dynamite potential,  but will he be able to get up to speed and not slow down. If so, he could cause some havoc like a bus that can’t stop.

Wait and see –

Previous lottery pick, Frank Ntilikina hasn’t had the start to his NBA career that one would have hoped for. There is no questioning his defensive ability, but it’s his playmaking and shooting that hasn’t been able to make the adjustment. However he is only 21, so he is still a young pup. His progression would mean a lot for this young team.

Keanu Reeves Movie Comparison:  The Replacements – This group of misfits have banded together, to be the Charlotte Hornets. Against all odds, can Franky Smokes be this teams Shane Falco? After all his opportunities may have an exploration date. 

                                               

 2019 Draft –

With only one pick in the 2019 Charlotte selected Nicholas Claxton at pick 19. Higher than his projected position, but Nick obviously like what he saw in the skilled big man, who grew up as a point guard until he had a massive growth spurt. He needs to put on some weight, but has shown his IQ and defensive prowess. Might spend a bit of his rookie season in the G-League, but has the potential to become a good NBA player. I know a few other GM’s had their eye on him.

Salary –

Charlotte, with all the rookie contracts they have under the belt definitely won’t be fined for being over any salary cap. They are $ 7,581,941 under the salary cap.

My guess is the only reason guys like Evan Turner, Bismack Biyombo and Courtney Lee were drafted was to fill the salary deficit, as they clearly don’t fit the timeline of the team. Although a veteran presence is always good to mould the young talent.

Season Outlook –

With Charlotte going full steam ahead with the youth movement, it would be wishful thinking to imagine they will make too much noise. If they can get to 30 wins, you would call that a successful season. Although I would imagine GM Nick isn’t too worried about the win/loss column compared to the overall player development of his squad.