NBA Expansion Rumblings
The NBA is buzzing with speculation around potential expansion, a topic that has captivated fans and analysts alike as the league gears up for its future. At a press conference held in Las Vegas prior to the NBA Cup Finals, where the New York Knicks are set to face off against the San Antonio Spurs, NBA Commissioner Adam Silver revealed that a decision regarding expansion could come as early as 2026. It’s a significant statement that could reshape the landscape of the league.
If the NBA does indeed proceed with adding two teams, likely in Seattle and Las Vegas, the impact on existing franchises would be profound. Among those most affected would be the Charlotte Hornets, who would find their division structure undergoing a major overhaul. According to projections by The Athletic’s John Hollinger, Charlotte may find itself relocated to the Atlantic Division, joining the likes of Miami, Orlando, and Atlanta, while bidding farewell to Washington.
Expansion Draft Implications
The ramifications of expansion go beyond mere geography; they extend into the core of team rosters. An expansion draft would mean that Charlotte would have to make critical decisions about which players to protect. Each franchise would be allowed to shield up to eight players on standard NBA contracts from being selected by the new teams.
As it stands, the Hornets have three players—Collin Sexton, Pat Connaughton, and Mason Plumlee—who would be off-limits for protection, as they will enter unrestricted free agency come the summer of 2026. This scenario leaves Charlotte with a pool of 12 players to evaluate for protection: LaMelo Ball, Miles Bridges, Brandon Miller, Josh Green, Grant Williams, Kon Knueppel, Tidjane Salaun, Tre Mann, Liam McNeeley, Moussa Diabate, Sion James, and Ryan Kalkbrenner.
Strategizing the Protect List
In this hypothetical situation, if I were in the shoes of Hornets’ management, the decision-making process would center around maintaining a competitive core. Among the choices, it’s a no-brainer to keep LaMelo Ball, who remains the centerpiece of the franchise despite ongoing trade rumors.
Additionally, talents like Brandon Miller, Kon Knueppel, Liam McNeeley, Moussa Diabate, Sion James, and Ryan Kalkbrenner would also be integral to the future vision. These young players represent a mix of potential and skill that could position the Hornets for success in a restructured NBA landscape.
As the league moves closer to a definitive decision on expansion, the Hornets and their management must prepare for a pivotal moment in their franchise’s history, one that could redefine the team’s trajectory for years to come. The 2026 expansion draft might just be the beginning of a new chapter in Charlotte basketball.
