The Charlotte Hornets have been turning heads this season, clawing their way to a .500 record after a rocky 4-14 start. Much of this resurgence can be credited to the savvy leadership of Charles Lee.
While the Hornets are eyeing the playoffs, there’s room for growth if they want to become true contenders. Enter: free agency.
Currently sitting 10th in the Eastern Conference with a 34-34 record, the Hornets are within reach of climbing the standings for a better playoff position. Fans are buzzing about the postseason, but Jeff Peterson’s front office is playing the long game. The right offseason moves could propel Charlotte to new heights next season.
Let’s dive into three free agents who could elevate the Hornets into Eastern Conference contenders.
Rui Hachimura
The ongoing debate about Miles Bridges' role in Charlotte's offense is heating up. The Hornets need to decide whether to upgrade the forward position or add reliable depth-and Rui Hachimura fits the bill for both.
Hachimura has been a key piece for the Lakers, averaging 29.2 minutes with 11.5 points and 3.3 rebounds, shooting an impressive 50.3/43.6/75.9. While his free‑throw shooting is average, he’s a solid two‑way forward who boosts a team’s performance without needing the ball constantly. Bridges takes on more offensive duties in Charlotte, but that’s more about usage than necessity.
The Hornets don’t need another high-volume scorer at the four. With LaMelo Ball, Brandon Miller, and Kon Knueppel driving the offense, they need a forward who defends, spaces the floor, and plays within the system.
Hachimura is that guy. He brings defensive potential, excels as an off‑ball helper, and at 6'8", offers the stretch‑four shooting profile that can open up the court for the Hornets.
Anfernee Simons
Whether the Hornets want to strengthen their guard depth or address potential issues with Coby White’s contract, Anfernee Simons is a logical fit for this offense. He aligns perfectly with Charles Lee’s three‑point‑heavy strategy and could be an immediate spark off the bench.
Simons is hitting 38.1% from deep this season, which would rank him second among Hornets taking at least three three-pointers per game. Charlotte’s second unit needs a high-volume scorer, as it currently ranks outside the top 15 in bench points per game. Simons offers shot creation, spacing, and the ability to change momentum quickly.
Defensively, he’s not a standout, but the offensive upside is worth it. If he’s delivering 15+ efficient points in limited minutes, that’s valuable-especially for a team that struggles offensively when the starters rest.
Walker Kessler
Walker Kessler is heading into restricted free agency while recovering from a shoulder injury, and his future in Utah is uncertain after their trade for Jaren Jackson Jr. Charlotte, in need of size and length, should take notice.
Kessler is a 7'2" powerhouse with underrated defensive versatility. He’s an elite rebounder, top-tier rim protector, and was playing over 30 minutes per game before his injury. Although he only attempted eight threes this season, hitting 75% of them hints at his potential to stretch the floor.
Kessler could be a long-term fit in Charlotte, particularly if Peterson wants to upgrade the center position without relying solely on the draft. However, acquiring him won’t come cheap. Peterson might need to offer more than $20 million per year to get his attention.
In summary, with strategic moves in free agency, the Hornets can build on their promising season and aim for greater success in the Eastern Conference.