Charlotte Hornets: 5 goals for the upcoming 2018 offseason

2. Either extend or trade Kemba Walker

Walker is almost in the same situation as Howard in the sense that he is entering a contract year in 2018-19. Unlike Howard, however, Walker is in the prime of his career and will almost certainly get a max contract when his current deal expires.

The former UConn Husky was unquestionably Charlotte’s best player last year. He averaged 22.1 points and 5.6 assists per game while being one of the most efficient players in the pick-and-roll (1.03 points per possession). The Hornets were significantly better with Walker on the floor, as their Net Rating dropped from +3.6 to -7.3 when he went to the bench. He has definitely earned a big payday.

Since the Hornets own Walker’s Bird Rights, they can offer him more years and more money than any other team. Plus, they can go into the tax to keep him around. However, Walker seems to be growing tired of the sub-.500 seasons. Given the Hornets’ previously discussed cap limitations, they may not have the ability to immediately change their fortunes.

Charlotte should try to do everything in its power to keep the franchise’s all-time leading scorer. If Walker gives any indication that he doesn’t want to re-sign, the Hornets should entertain offers from other teams. Even with an expiring contract, the $12 million cover charge would make him easier to move, and the Hornets could try and package one of those uglier contracts with him. It’s better than possibly losing him for nothing.