Charlotte Hornets: A-
The Hornets’ glaring need was finally issued, trading for center Montrezl Harrel from the Washington Wizards. The veteran big will help sure up their frontcourt issues, providing an ulterior option to Mason Plumlee down low. The rim running big can synergize well Charlotte’s fast pace offense, quarterbacked by all-star LaMelo Ball.
On the other end, however, Harrel won’t help the team’s 24th-best defensive rating, as he offers little-to-no rim protection from the center position. The Hornets did well in the trade only giving up Vernon Carey Jr., Ish Smith, and a second-round pick in the deal.
Chicago Bulls: C
Many Bulls fans were frustrated at the team’s lack of activity at the trade deadline, not landing any rotational wing to slot into the power forward position. However, it seems like the team is counting on a return of Patrick Williams before the season’s end, which would be a big boost to the team’s forward depth. Ideally, they would have landed a player of Thaddeus Young’s caliber but weren’t able to get a deal done.
It’s not a complete disaster, however, as it’s only Chicago’s first year of true contention with this currently constructed roster. They’ll be active on the buyout market, looking to improve their Eastern Conference seeding come playoff time.