The Charlotte Hornets are a franchise known for their inconsistent performance and lack of sustained success in the NBA. Over the years, they’ve experienced their share of highs and lows, but one area where the team has consistently struggled is at the center position. Heading into the NBA trade deadline, it’s clear that the Hornets will need to make a move to shore up their roster if they want to compete for a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference. As a result, the team is predicted to target three centers—each offering a unique skill set—to help solidify their frontcourt and bolster their chances of success moving forward.
1. Myles Turner (Indiana Pacers)
Overview:
Myles Turner has long been a player linked to trade rumors, and this year could be the one where the Indiana Pacers finally part ways with their star center. Turner has established himself as one of the NBA’s premier shot-blockers and a capable stretch-five. With the Pacers in a rebuilding phase, moving Turner could be a smart decision to gain assets and further the team’s long-term goals. This has opened the door for the Hornets to swoop in and acquire him, especially given their need for rim protection and reliable frontcourt play.
Fit with the Hornets:
Turner would be an immediate upgrade for the Hornets in a number of areas. First and foremost, he would address their lack of rim protection. Charlotte ranks poorly in terms of defending the paint, and Turner’s elite shot-blocking ability would provide an immediate solution. His 2.3 blocks per game this season (as of the latest stats) show his ability to change the game on the defensive end. This would be a massive boost to a Hornets defense that has struggled to stop opposing big men.
Offensively, Turner is a versatile big man. While he excels at protecting the rim, he also has a developing three-point shot that would help stretch the floor for Charlotte. This is important for the Hornets, as they have a young core that thrives on spacing the floor and creating opportunities for perimeter shooting. Having Turner as a floor-spacing center could create more driving lanes for their guards and wings, and his ability to pick-and-pop could open up new offensive schemes.
Turner’s contract is also a key factor. With the Pacers in a rebuilding phase, they may be more willing to part with Turner, especially if it means acquiring younger assets or draft picks. The Hornets have an assortment of young players and picks that could make a trade for Turner feasible, such as pairing someone like James Bouknight or other draft assets for a package centered around Turner.
Potential Trade:
A trade involving Myles Turner could look like sending a combination of young players, such as Bouknight, and some draft capital to the Pacers. The Hornets have the flexibility to offer a deal that could fit both teams’ needs, including taking on a contract like Turner’s in exchange for future assets.
2. Jakob Poeltl (Toronto Raptors)
Overview:
Jakob Poeltl is another center that could be on the move at the trade deadline, with the Toronto Raptors seemingly heading towards a rebuild or at least a retooling of their roster. Poeltl, who was traded to Toronto in 2021, has consistently provided a solid, steady presence in the middle for the Raptors. Though not as flashy as some of the other names on the market, Poeltl is one of the league’s more reliable defensive bigs, offering rebounding, screen-setting, and rim protection.
Fit with the Hornets:
The Hornets’ frontcourt has struggled with rebounding, and Poeltl’s ability to gobble up boards would be a welcome addition. His 9.3 rebounds per game this season demonstrate his value as a rebounder, and that type of presence in the paint is exactly what the Hornets need. Charlotte currently ranks near the bottom of the league in defensive rebounding percentage, so Poeltl could immediately improve their ability to secure second-chance opportunities and limit opponents’ offensive rebounds.
While Poeltl is not the most versatile offensive player, he does a great job of finishing around the basket. He’s an excellent lob target and a solid pick-and-roll player, which would mesh well with the Hornets’ offense. With players like LaMelo Ball and Terry Rozier, Poeltl could get easy baskets off pick-and-rolls, giving the Hornets a reliable interior presence to complement their perimeter shooting.
Poeltl’s contract, however, could be a stumbling block. He is in the final year of his deal, and the Raptors may not be as eager to part with him unless the Hornets are willing to offer a fair package. Nonetheless, Poeltl would give the Hornets an upgrade in the frontcourt, offering the necessary rebounding, defense, and efficiency to help them become more competitive in the East.
Potential Trade:
A trade for Poeltl could involve moving a combination of young players and possibly expiring contracts to match salaries. Given the Raptors’ interest in retooling, Charlotte could offer a player like P.J. Washington or another young asset in exchange for Poeltl. This would allow the Raptors to gain youth and flexibility, while Charlotte gains a more immediate, reliable option in the paint.
3. Brook Lopez (Milwaukee Bucks)
Overview:
Brook Lopez, the longtime center for the Milwaukee Bucks, has been integral to the team’s defensive success and championship run in 2021. Lopez is a veteran presence with championship experience, and though he’s nearing the tail end of his career, he continues to play at a high level. Known for his elite shot-blocking and three-point shooting, Lopez could be a perfect fit for a Hornets team looking for a veteran to guide their young core while providing both floor spacing and defensive stability.
Fit with the Hornets:
Lopez would be an interesting fit alongside LaMelo Ball and the Hornets’ perimeter-oriented offense. His ability to stretch the floor with his three-point shooting would complement Charlotte’s offensive scheme, which relies on spacing the floor and creating open looks for shooters. Lopez is shooting over 35% from three this season, which makes him a potent threat from the outside, even at his age. His ability to space the floor while maintaining a physical presence in the paint would give the Hornets a unique dimension on both ends of the floor.
Defensively, Lopez would help anchor the Hornets’ defense. Though not as mobile as some of the younger centers on the market, Lopez is an excellent shot-blocker and can still protect the rim effectively. His 1.5 blocks per game this season highlight his continued ability to alter shots and defend the paint. Given the Hornets’ struggles defensively, Lopez’s experience and skill set could help elevate their defense and bring a level of consistency that they have lacked.
Lopez’s age and contract situation make him a more short-term option for the Hornets. He’s signed to a relatively team-friendly deal and could provide immediate value for a playoff push. Additionally, his experience and leadership could help develop the younger players on the roster, such as Ball and Miles Bridges, who could benefit from Lopez’s wisdom in big-game situations.
Potential Trade:
A trade for Lopez would likely be more complicated given his veteran status and the Bucks’ championship aspirations. However, a deal could be made if the Hornets offer a package that helps the Bucks further strengthen their title chances. The Hornets could look to move players like Kelly Oubre Jr. or Gordon Hayward, whose contracts could match Lopez’s salary. With the Bucks in win-now mode, this type of deal could give them additional scoring and perimeter defense while allowing Charlotte to bring in a reliable veteran center.
Conclusion
Heading into the NBA trade deadline, the Charlotte Hornets will undoubtedly be focused on upgrading their center position. With LaMelo Ball emerging as a star and the team’s young players developing, adding a center who can provide rim protection, rebounding, and scoring is crucial for the team’s future success. Myles Turner, Jakob Poeltl, and Brook Lopez all represent different but valuable options for the Hornets, each bringing a unique skill set that could complement Charlotte’s current roster.
Turner is an elite shot-blocker and floor spacer who could give the Hornets both defensive and offensive versatility. Poeltl is a more traditional, gritty big who would bolster the team’s rebounding and interior defense. Lopez, though older, offers a veteran presence and floor-spacing ability while still providing a solid defensive impact.
No matter which direction the Hornets choose, one thing is clear: securing a reliable center is a priority if they want to remain competitive in the crowded Eastern Conference. The right move at the trade deadline could be the difference between making the playoffs and continuing to be a fringe team on the outside looking in.
