OKC Thunder: Power Rankings all teams at the trade deadline

Charlotte Hornets: Buyers and Sellers

Week 13:1-3

Offense: (110.8) 18th
Defense: (112.2) 21st
Net: (Minus -1.4) 22nd

This may feel like an awfully low placement for the Hornets but the loss of LaMelo Ball presumably for the season is a devasting blow. There are teams who I can envision moving up the ladder due to circumstance (Raptors potentially) while the Hornets are more likely to go into a bit of free fall.

Although there is still talent on the club it’s hard to envision them performing as well without Ball. The odd part of the equation is there are rumors of the Hornets considering moving on from Devonte Graham as per Sam Amick of The Athletic.

Conversely, there are also rumors the Hornets will seek to add a big man and have been linked to interest in Richaun Holmes and Montrezl Harrel.

Even if the Hornets do plummet down the ladder these moves would fit the timeline and trajectory of the club as it would presumably be ready to take another step. next season.