28. Charlotte Hornets
The Charlotte Hornets are one of the most unpredictable teams in the Eastern Conference heading into the start of the season. LaMelo Ball is talented but far from a sure-certified star. Brandon Miller, the No. 2 overall pick from the 2023 NBA Draft, has a lot of winning over to do as he’s going to be continually compared to Scoot Henderson. Miles Bridges is on the roster but there’s no guarantee he’s going to play this season with all the legal troubles he has.
Gordon Hayward and Terry Rozier are likely trade candidates this season and there’s no guarantee they finish the season on the Hornets’ roster. When you look at it that way, it’s easy to see why many are bullish about the team’s chances heading into the start of the season.
The Hornets still have plenty to prove this season and even if a best-case scenario for the team, I’m not sure they’re good enough to make it out of the cellar in the Eastern Conference. Maybe they prove me wrong?