Josh Green’s Return: A Catalyst for Change in Charlotte
Entering the current season, the Charlotte Hornets had aspirations of vying for a playoff berth. After years of struggling, even a shot at the play-in tournament felt attainable. However, the reality has been starkly different. As of now, the team finds itself languishing in 12th place in the Eastern Conference, raising urgent questions about the path forward.
Josh Green’s Impact on the Roster
In a bid to revitalize their season, the Hornets are set to welcome back Josh Green into their rotation. The return of a guard known for his defensive tenacity and three-point shooting could provide the much-needed boost the team desperately craves. But with Green’s comeback on the horizon, the focus shifts to roster adjustments—specifically, who will see their minutes reduced.
Sion James is likely to experience a decrease in playing time, primarily due to his role not aligning with the starting lineup upon Green’s return. This predicament is particularly pronounced on nights when LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller are sidelined, which has unfortunately become a recurring theme. In these instances, Green can seamlessly slide into a starting role, offering a more reliable option.
Another player potentially at risk is rookie Liam McNeeley. While McNeeley has shown flashes of improvement, his offensive struggles have been evident, making Green’s return a likely upgrade. The Hornets currently rank as one of the weakest defensive teams in the league, sitting at seventh from the bottom. Green’s defensive prowess could be the antidote they need, filling a void that McNeeley has yet to adequately address.
Tanking on the Horizon?
If the Hornets fail to turn their fortunes around swiftly, the team may need to consider a more drastic approach: tanking. The All-Star break could serve as a pivotal moment for Charlotte, potentially nudging them toward a rebuilding mindset. Recent trade rumors surrounding LaMelo Ball have added fuel to this speculation. If the franchise decides to part ways with its star guard, it’s likely that a tanking strategy would follow, perhaps even organically.
While Green’s return is a positive development, it alone will not be enough to transform the Hornets into contenders. The team also needs its key players, notably Miller, to return to full health and perform at their best. The clock is ticking for Charlotte, and the upcoming weeks will be critical in determining whether they remain competitive or begin to pivot toward a new chapter in their franchise history.
