Charlotte Hornets Weigh Options Ahead of 2025 NBA Draft

Brooklyn, NY – The Charlotte Hornets are strategizing ahead of the 2025 NBA Draft, which takes place Wednesday night. With the No. 4 pick, the team is considering multiple prospects, amid trade rumors surrounding their selection.

Interest in Duke‘s Kon Knueppel has been reported, but according to NBA Insider Brett Siegel, this interest may be overstated. Siegel mentioned that while the Hornets are looking at Knueppel, they are also focused on possibly trading down to collect future assets.

“League sources say Charlotte has navigated the pre-draft cycle with multiple smokescreens. Their interest in selecting Knueppel has been exaggerated,” Siegel stated. This strategy may open the door for other prospects, including Ace Bailey, who could emerge as a preferred choice if he is available.

Bailey, an 18-year-old guard from Rutgers, has drawn attention due to his impressive statistics, averaging 17.6 points and 7.2 rebounds during his lone college season. However, his draft stock faces uncertainty, especially as teams weigh their options.

“Many teams prioritize the best player available over the draftee preferences,” Siegel explained, highlighting how the Hornets might decide on Bailey should he fall to them.

Additionally, the Hornets are reportedly engaged in trade discussions involving their fourth pick, as teams like the Brooklyn Nets, Washington Wizards, and New Orleans Pelicans show interest in acquiring it for Bailey. The prospect of moving down could allow Charlotte to target talents like Khaman Maluach or Tre Johnson.

The NBA Draft begins at 8 p.m. ET, and the Hornets’ choices may shape the draft’s outcome. Executive Vice President Jeff Peterson is leading the draft strategy, with significant implications for the team’s future.