Charlotte Hornets: 2018-19 NBA season preview

Predictions

This version of the Hornets could be a little tough to figure out. The Howard experiment didn’t move the needle and much of the team’s roster has remained unchanged until this year. Off the court, this team will ride on the organization’s decisions regarding Kemba Walker; on the court, it could depend on Nicolas Batum, and to a lesser extent, Jeremy Lamb.

If it is a truly open competition at every spot, that should benefit Batum the most. He’s one of the best shooters on the team, and he becomes a staple in the starting lineup. Coach Borrego has already stated he’s been impressed with Bridges back on Media Day, providing a quality backup to Batum.

Borrego will have a stellar wing rotation being able to start Batum and Lamb and use Bridges off the bench for long stretches. Don’t be surprised if we see all three on the floor at the same time.

Willy Hernangomez will eventually take most of the minutes at center. We will still see Cody Zeller, but not always at the center position. As Kaminsky gets more minutes at center and power forward, this will make Bismack Biyombo expendable and he will be traded by the All-Star break.

With solid rotations at the frontcourt and wings, less pressure will be on Kemba to always create, leading to a career year and being in MVP conversations. The Hornets may not win the division, but they’ll be close, winning 43 games on the year and making the playoffs as the 8-seed.