Did The Charlotte Hornets Quietly Win The 2025 NBA Draft? Breaking Down Their Surprising Picks
The Charlotte Hornets may have pulled the best roster from the 2025 NBA draft. They quietly balanced their depth with a strong and smart presence. After years of hit-or-miss picks, the team seems to have found a suitable fit for their talents.
After trading for veteran center Jusuf Nurkic in February and gaining draft picks, Charlotte added young talent and experience without losing salary flexibility. The decision allows flexibility to take on more short-term contracts if needed.
Charlotte selected four players: Kon Knueppel, Liam McNeeley, Sion James, and Ryan Kalkbrenner. The players not only bring potential to the court but also define professionalism, which the franchise values. The new additions surprised many with their contributions and allowed the Hornets to stand tall with their key rotations immediately.
The Hornets prioritized character in their draft class, which turned out to be a great haul of prospects:
— Evan Sidery (@esidery) June 27, 2025
Kon Knueppel
Liam McNeeley
Sion James
Ryan Kalkbrenner
All four could be immediate contributors within Charlotte’s rotation. pic.twitter.com/VUW1ywl01h
Knueppel, McNeeley, James, and Kalkbrenner all show multidimensional profiles. Each has a reputation for hard work, discipline, and high character traits that define their identity in the front office. The significant presence of four can boost Charlotte’s depth and reduce the need for risky agents.
These picks prove the Hornets are thinking long term. They did not chase big names, but they chose players who can grow in their system. This could be a major step toward a stronger future.
Uncertainty Around Charlotte Hornets’ Depth
As the Charlotte Hornets planned their roster with Young talent, they faced an unexpected setback. According to a report by Mike Lacett, one draft lottery prospect doesn’t want to share the court with LaMelo Ball. The exact reason is unknown, but Ball should not be blamed.
Ball is heading into his sixth season with the Hornets and had a great 2024-25 season. He averaged 25.2 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 7.4 assists, but still finished 14th in the East with only 19 wins.
As the current scenario includes his name, Ball’s opportunity to remain in the depth looks uncertain. Though he is the team’s brightest star and key to their future, all eyes will be on the team’s decision to add young talent or remain loyal to Ball.
Did The Charlotte Hornets Quietly Win The 2025 NBA Draft? Breaking Down Their Surprising Picks
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