The Charlotte Hornets are making moves - and not just in the standings. Riding the momentum of a seven-game win streak, the Hornets have added a trio of guards to their roster: Coby White and Mike Conley from the Chicago Bulls, and Tyus Jones from the Orlando Magic. In a corresponding move, Charlotte waived veteran wing Pat Connaughton to clear roster space.
Now, let’s break this down.
The Hornets are surging, and this stretch of inspired basketball has them knocking on the door of the Eastern Conference play-in race. At 23-28, Charlotte sits in 11th place, just one game behind the Bulls for the 10th and final play-in spot. This recent run has injected real life into a team that looked stagnant earlier in the season, and the front office clearly sees a window to make a push.
Coby White: A Homecoming with Impact
Coby White’s arrival is more than just a roster addition - it’s a return to familiar territory. The former UNC standout is back in North Carolina, and he’s not just here for nostalgia.
White is having a career year, averaging 18.6 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 4.7 assists per game. He’s shooting 43.8% from the field, 34.6% from deep, and 80.5% from the line - solid numbers across the board for a guard who’s grown into a reliable offensive option.
This isn’t the same player who entered the league as a raw scorer with tunnel vision. White has matured, improved his decision-making, and become a more complete offensive threat.
With his contract set to expire after this season - he’s making $12.9 million - this is a chance for both sides to evaluate fit. But right now, he looks like a piece that can help Charlotte keep this streak alive.
Tyus Jones: A Steady Hand
Then there’s Tyus Jones, the Duke product and one of the most steady-handed backup point guards in the league over the past few seasons. His numbers this year - 3.0 points, 1.1 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per game - don’t jump off the page, but Jones brings value that isn’t always reflected in box scores. He’s a low-turnover, high-IQ player who can run an offense, keep the ball moving, and stabilize second units.
Jones is on an expiring $7 million deal and will hit unrestricted free agency this summer. For Charlotte, this is a short-term move with upside.
If he clicks in this environment and helps the Hornets continue their run, he could earn a longer look. If not, the financial flexibility remains intact.
Mike Conley’s Uncertain Future
Mike Conley’s inclusion in the deal raises some questions. A veteran with playoff pedigree and a high basketball IQ, Conley’s presence could be valuable to a young team.
But early indications suggest he may not be in Charlotte for long. Whether that means a buyout or another trade remains to be seen, but for now, his future with the team is cloudy.
The Bigger Picture
The Hornets’ front office clearly sees an opportunity. They’re within striking distance of the play-in, they’ve found a rhythm on the court, and now they’ve added two guards who can help right away.
White brings scoring punch and familiarity with the area. Jones provides control and experience.
If Conley sticks around, he adds leadership and playoff know-how.
Waiving Pat Connaughton was the necessary move to make this all happen, and while Connaughton is a capable veteran, the Hornets are prioritizing upside and on-court fit during this critical stretch.
Charlotte’s win streak has already turned heads. These trades show they’re not just content with being hot - they’re trying to stay that way. With the Eastern Conference play-in race heating up, the Hornets just added a few more logs to the fire.