Charlotte Hornets
Southeast Division
Last season's record: 43-39
Roster additions and losses
The Charlotte Hornets tried very early on in free agency to make a big splash as they had Gordon Hayward agree to a max-deal. Unfortunately for the Hornets, the Utah Jazz held Hayward’s restricted free-agency rights and the offer sheet was quickly matched ensuring Hayward would be returning to Utah.
Not to be too deterred, the Hornets turned their attention to the disgruntled and seemingly underappreciated Lance Stephenson out in Indiana. Stephenson was a free-agent who felt slighted by the Pacers after what he perceived to be a lowball offer was made to him. Sensing some opportunity, the Hornets swooped in and lured Stephenson to join the upstart Hornets squad.
Also added to the mix was the veteran Marvin Williams who left Atlanta as a free agent to sign a two year deal with Charlotte. Given that the Hornets have committed $14 million to Williams over the next two seasons, there is obviously a purpose behind the signing and that purpose is the hope that Williams can be the starting power forward until Noah Vonleh is acclimated to the NBA.
Of note, the Hornets did lose Josh McRoberts to the Miami Heat. McRoberts helped to stretch the floor for the Hornets; however, his production in the lineup was marginal and can easily be accounted for as the season progresses.
Keys to Success
For the Hornets to be successful and make the playoffs in back-to back seasons, the duo of Kemba Walker and Al Jefferson must stay healthy and duplicate their stellar seasons from last year. Walker and Jefferson can propel this team back to the playoffs; through in a decent season from Lance Stephenson and this team is the odds on favorite to procure the eight-spot come playoff time.
The progression of rookie Noah Vonleh and P.J. Hairston, assuming his court case is settled and he is available to the Hornets, will also be a big part of the team’s success. Vonleh comes into the association with high hopes and despite having to sit out all of training camp and the preseason; Vonleh is expected to have an impact.
Fantasy Roster Impact
When it comes to fantasy relevance it really boils down to the big two of Walker and Jefferson. From these two there is a significant drop off in terms of value and potential. A bit of a dark horse here is Michael Kidd-Gilchrist who really needs to have a bounce back year and start playing a lot better than he did last season. MKG is capable of being a true contributor; however, the preseason should be fairly indicative of how the Hornets plan to use him and if those roles aren’t conducive then MKG isn’t worth the look.
2014 Season Prediction
Last season the Hornets managed to get the seven seed in the Conference. This season they will be fighting for the eighth and final playoff spot due to the fact that Cleveland went from a non-playoff team to a certain playoff team. The Hornets will still need to win at least 40 games this season for the playoff dream to become a reality and I think this is very attainable.
I expect Kemba Walker and Al Jefferson to both get all-star nods with Walker likely being named to a Third Team All-NBA team at season’s end. Vonleh won’t be in serious consideration for rookie of the year honors due to his injury and the reluctance of the Hornets to rush him into action.