Charlotte Hornets: 5 keys to making the playoffs in 2017-18

CHARLOTTE, NC - APRIL 29: A general view of shirts on seats prior to the game between the Miami Heat and Charlotte Hornets in game six of the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals of the 2016 NBA Playoffs at Time Warner Cable Arena on April 29, 2016 in Charlotte, North Carolina. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images) /

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Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images /

In order for the Charlotte Hornets to make the playoffs, they much achieve the five keys to success, including Dwight Howard improving on the defensive end.

Last season, the Charlotte Hornets missed the playoffs, finishing the season 11th in the standings with a 36-46 record. Charlotte made some moves during this offseason and the 2017 NBA Draft to ensure that they’re not making vacation plans early again.

These moves plus requiring each player on the Hornets roster, from the point guard to the last member of the bench, to step up next season, will be key to Charlotte’s playoff chances.

There are five keys that Charlotte needs to make the playoffs, and prevent them from being locked out next season: Kemba Walker must become a true point guard, Dwight Howard must improve his free throws, Nicolas Batum has to get his scoring up, the Hornets must protect their home court, and they must get help from the second unit.

Here’s a look at how those five keys will help get the Hornets back to the postseason in 2018.

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