The Charlotte Hornets have wasted no time making noise this offseason, signaling a bold new chapter for the franchise. With a mix of savvy trades, developmental signings, and a promising draft class, the Hornets appear focused not just on immediate improvement, but long-term transformation. Here’s a breakdown of their most notable offseason moves—and what they mean for the team’s future.
1. Josh Okogie’s Contract Pushback: A Trade in the Works?
Charlotte has strategically delayed the contract guarantee deadline for guard Josh Okogie, buying themselves valuable time to explore trade options. The move hints that the front office is actively weighing roster flexibility and potential packages, possibly looking to capitalize on Okogie’s defensive tenacity and playoff experience. While he remains a capable contributor, his future in Charlotte now hangs in the balance.
2. Major Signing: Tre Mann Secures a $24M Deal
One of the Hornets’ biggest moves came with the signing of Tre Mann, inking a 3-year, $24 million deal. The former Thunder and Magic guard is known for his explosive scoring bursts and creative playmaking. Prior to a back injury that sidelined him for five months, Mann was averaging 14.1 points, 2.9 rebounds, and 3.0 assists per game. If healthy, he brings a dynamic offensive presence and backcourt depth that could accelerate Charlotte’s rebuild.
3. Veteran Leadership Acquired: Pat Connaughton Joins the Fold
In a multi-player swap with the Milwaukee Bucks, Charlotte acquired veteran wing Pat Connaughton along with valuable future draft capital. The deal sent Vasilije Micic in the opposite direction, a calculated move that infuses leadership, perimeter defense, and championship pedigree into a youthful Hornets squad. Connaughton’s versatility and locker room presence should prove invaluable as the team matures.
4. Duke DNA: Mason Plumlee Returns with Young Blue Devils in Tow
Charlotte leaned into its local ties by signing veteran center and Duke alum Mason Plumlee to a 1-year, $3.6 million deal. Plumlee’s rebounding, interior passing, and experience make him a solid rotational piece. But perhaps more exciting is the influx of Duke-affiliated prospects joining him—including Kon Knueppel and Sion James. This infusion not only strengthens their frontcourt but also connects the team to one of college basketball’s most successful pipelines.
5. Draft Class Sparks Optimism for the Future
The 2025 NBA Draft may well be remembered as a turning point for the Hornets. Analysts and fans alike praised Charlotte’s selections: Kon Knueppel (a versatile shooter), Liam McNeeley (a high-IQ forward), Ryan Kalkbrenner (a shot-blocking big), and Sion James (a defensive-minded guard). These additions give the Hornets a foundation of two-way talent and character—elements that align with their culture-building approach.
The Bigger Picture
Taken together, these moves reflect a deliberate shift in Charlotte’s team-building philosophy. Rather than chasing quick fixes, the Hornets are assembling a roster filled with developmental upside, positional versatility, and proven veteran leadership. The emphasis seems clear: build around LaMelo Ball while crafting a sustainable core that can grow into a playoff-caliber squad over the next few seasons.
As the 2025–26 season approaches, expectations will remain tempered—but the signs of a promising new era are unmistakable. Charlotte fans finally have a reason to look forward, not backward.
