Charlotte Pick Watch (Lottery protected)

[spurraider21]

As we know, the 2025 draft is the last opportunity for this pick to convey... otherwise we receive SRPs from Charlotte in each of 2026 and 2027

In one of the moderate surprises of the offseason, Charlotte ended up re-signing Miles Bridges to a 3 year deal. They were pretty active and yet also quiet in the offseason, making several moves, but of fairly low impact... ie waiving Seith Curry/Bertans/Poku, acquiring Josh Green and Reggie Jackson in the 6-team Klay Thompson trade, and trading for and waiving Devonte Graham.

Objectively, this pick is probably not going to convey. If one wanted to make a bull case for it...

- LaMelo Ball is a legitimate star caliber player who can rack up points and assists, and part of the Hornets' struggles has been his injury history, having only played 58 combined games in the last 2 seasons. He's a flawed player, but hard to believe Charlotte would be a better team without him. He also doesn't even turn 23 until next month.

- By all accounts, Brandon Miller had a successful rookie season, averaging 17ppg on 44/37/83 splits despite not playing with a point guard designed to make his life easier. He came in 3rd in ROY voting, well behind Chet, but also well ahead of Jacquez Jr.

- Mark Williams has been an impact player for them in his 2 seasons, but has only played 62 games in that span due to injury. He is very clearly a floor raiser for them, and a full season of Mark Williams starting instead of Nick Richards would be difference-making. There was talk about the Hornets having long term concerns about his back injury, but their decision to pass on Clingan at #6 overall may be an indication that this is not the case.

- Grant Williams and Tre Mann both played fairly well for Charlotte last year after their acquisitions (Grant in the PJ Washington trade, Mann in the Hayward trade). Along with Josh Green, Reggie Jackson, and even Micic who got some run with them, its not the worst collection of role players out there.

- Maybe Tidjane Salaun really is the superstar of the 2024 class!


Finally, when looking at the playoff picture in the east, its... not impossibe. Boston, New York, Philly, Orlando, Milwaukee, Indiana, and Cleveland all seem fairly likely to make the playoffs, which actually only leaves 1 spot, where the main competition would be Miami, Toronto, and Atlanta.

[LeBowen]

Could happen if they upset someone in the playoffs.

Nets, Wizards, Bulls will surely bottom out and try to get top3 odds.
Pistons got a new front office and have better talent than those three teams, but will also surely tank in the final few monthes.
Raptors have no way of acquiring a star other than the draft. They should also intentionally tank after the all-star break. Quickley/Barrett/Barnes could get into play-in contention if they're to compete.

Hornets easily have the best roster of that bunch, but are probably the most dysfunctional franchise in the league.

As you said, their rotation looks functional on paper with some high upside players.
Charles Lee is their new coach, can't say I know anything about him.

Ball/Jackson
Bridges/Green
Miller/Mann
G. Williams/Salaun
M. Williams/Richards

One of those six teams has to make the play-in and then anything can happen.
If they're healthy, and Lee can coach, they should be the team to make the play-in.
But if they're smart, they'll pull the handbrake to keep their pick.

Imagine the hype for Hawks-Hornets play-in matchup, which looks like a realistic scenario on paper. :lol

[ismael-robert]

Good Lord season hasn't even started yall some bored mofos

[slick'81]

Spurs aint getting that 1st

[TD 21]

Bridges/G. Williams/Salaun/Black (NG)
Miller/Martin
M. Williams/Richards
Green/Mann/Smith
Ball/Micic/Jackson*/Simpson (TW)

* Unlikely to remain on roster.

Presuming relative health, they're likely to be in the 9-11 range, with the Hawks and Craptors (will probably tank post trade deadline).

[CGD]

It’s a good thread. Was just thinking that CHA may be better than advertised this year, and they have a brand new cast of FO characters coming in with some of that BOS dna. Even if it fails to convey, if CHA starts to trend in the right direction it could up the picks appeal for trades.

[scott]

Watch out for the triple nut kick: CHA improves to a play-in team, but loses to ATL. We don’t get the CHA pick, and the ATL pick gets worse.

That’s the double nut kick, what’s the third? This kicks off CHA resurgence to a playoff team, and the two seconds that this gets converted to fall into the late 40s. :lol

[exstatic]

Bridges/G. Williams/Salaun/Black (NG)
Miller/Martin
M. Williams/Richards
Green/Mann/Smith
Ball/Micic/Jackson*/Simpson (TW)

* Unlikely to remain on roster.

Presuming relative health, they're likely to be in the 9-11 range, with the Hawks and Craptors (will probably tank post trade deadline).

We made the play in from position 9 in the Dejounte year. The East is really awful.

[DPG21920]

ATL & CHA locks for play in. Beat an injured mia to make playoffs. Profit

[Mr. Body]

Good breakdown. Although they'll have to pretend to at first, I don't think Charlotte has any real intention to compete this year, and are in the Toronto mode. I'm not sure anyone should believe in LaMelo Ball, either as a healthy player or as a winning basketball player. He's way too undisciplined.

The rest of the roster? Miller has big upside but I have trouble believing in stardom. I can see Bridges getting shopped to a team like the Clippers, who will badly need him just to protect their pick. I just don't see the talent or the desire to get into the playoffs this year and the pick of Salaun might show a longer view.

In the slim chance it conveys, I'd expect the Spurs to trade it, so the question isn't "where does the FRP land" but rather "what will we get for this FRP?" If it doesn't convey, the following years' SRPs might be pretty good. I don't see them competing for a while.

[talkspurs]

I may be one of the few but I think Toronto will be in the Playoffs. I think they have a solid team and with others in the East tanking they should pick up some easy wins.

[DPG21920]

I may be one of the few but I think Toronto will be in the Playoffs. I think they have a solid team and with others in the East tanking they should pick up some easy wins.

Did they improve? Lost Gary Trent and how did they get better?

[talkspurs]

Did they improve? Lost Gary Trent and how did they get better?

They added IQ towards the end of last year. I think with him on their team for the year they will be better.

[DPG21920]

They added IQ towards the end of last year. I think with him on their team for the year they will be better.

Im not so sure adding IQ but losing Trent Jr makes them all that much better. But maybe Barnes continues to leap and IQ breaks out etc…but I just find it hard to say they’ve improved when all they have done is bring back guys they had last season and lose Gary Trent Jr and likely trade Bruce Brown sometime as well.

[Mugen]

Salaun.

[BatManu20]

Might as well just give us those 2 SRP's right now and call it a day tbh.

[spurraider21]

Salaun.
You’re right. We’re fucked

[spurraider21]

Im not so sure adding IQ but losing Trent Jr makes them all that much better. But maybe Barnes continues to leap and IQ breaks out etc…but I just find it hard to say they’ve improved when all they have done is bring back guys they had last season and lose Gary Trent Jr and likely trade Bruce Brown sometime as well.
They went through a lot of turnover midseason with siakam and og both being moved and IQ/barrett/brown being integrated on the fly. Then Barnes checked out to close the season. Think there’s room for growth there

[scott]

Im not so sure adding IQ but losing Trent Jr makes them all that much better. But maybe Barnes continues to leap and IQ breaks out etc…but I just find it hard to say they’ve improved when all they have done is bring back guys they had last season and lose Gary Trent Jr and likely trade Bruce Brown sometime as well.

They were tanking pretty hard core last year to try to protect their pick. I bet they’ll be improved just on that basis alone. Still don’t think they’ll be good - just don’t think they are as bad as last year’s record suggests.

[rascal]

As we know, the 2025 draft is the last opportunity for this pick to convey... otherwise we receive SRPs from Charlotte in each of 2026 and 2027

In one of the moderate surprises of the offseason, Charlotte ended up re-signing Miles Bridges to a 3 year deal. They were pretty active and yet also quiet in the offseason, making several moves, but of fairly low impact... ie waiving Seith Curry/Bertans/Poku, acquiring Josh Green and Reggie Jackson in the 6-team Klay Thompson trade, and trading for and waiving Devonte Graham.

Objectively, this pick is probably not going to convey. If one wanted to make a bull case for it...

- LaMelo Ball is a legitimate star caliber player who can rack up points and assists, and part of the Hornets' struggles has been his injury history, having only played 58 combined games in the last 2 seasons. He's a flawed player, but hard to believe Charlotte would be a better team without him. He also doesn't even turn 23 until next month.

- By all accounts, Brandon Miller had a successful rookie season, averaging 17ppg on 44/37/83 splits despite not playing with a point guard designed to make his life easier. He came in 3rd in ROY voting, well behind Chet, but also well ahead of Jacquez Jr.

- Mark Williams has been an impact player for them in his 2 seasons, but has only played 62 games in that span due to injury. He is very clearly a floor raiser for them, and a full season of Mark Williams starting instead of Nick Richards would be difference-making. There was talk about the Hornets having long term concerns about his back injury, but their decision to pass on Clingan at #6 overall may be an indication that this is not the case.

- Grant Williams and Tre Mann both played fairly well for Charlotte last year after their acquisitions (Grant in the PJ Washington trade, Mann in the Hayward trade). Along with Josh Green, Reggie Jackson, and even Micic who got some run with them, its not the worst collection of role players out there.

- Maybe Tidjane Salaun really is the superstar of the 2024 class!


Finally, when looking at the playoff picture in the east, its... not impossibe. Boston, New York, Philly, Orlando, Milwaukee, Indiana, and Cleveland all seem fairly likely to make the playoffs, which actually only leaves 1 spot, where the main competition would be Miami, Toronto, and Atlanta.

Boston, New York, Philly, Orlando, Milwaukee, Indiana, Miami and Cleveland There are your 8 teams.
Charlotte has no incentive to push down the stretch to get wins to make the playoffs and lose their lottery pick.

[baseline bum]

Watch out for the triple nut kick: CHA improves to a play-in team, but loses to ATL. We don’t get the CHA pick, and the ATL pick gets worse.

That’s the double nut kick, what’s the third? This kicks off CHA resurgence to a playoff team, and the two seconds that this gets converted to fall into the late 40s. :lol

Ouch would hate losing the chance to piss away another early second rounder on a stash and never sign again

[spurraider21]

Boston, New York, Philly, Orlando, Milwaukee, Indiana, Miami and Cleveland There are your 8 teams.
Charlotte has no incentive to push down the stretch to get wins to make the playoffs and lose their lottery pick.
Miami is not that good and has only gotten worse

[scott]

Ouch would hate losing the chance to piss away another early second rounder on a stash and never sign again

#34 pick sells for more cash than the #48 pick. Those visits to All Stars aren’t going to pay for themselves!

[Ariel]

I agree with most of the OP's reasoning, but the small detail he misses is that Miami and Atlanta want to compete, Charlotte wants to tank. At the end of the day, that may be all it takes for them to miss the playoffs. Only glimmer of hope may be they're off to a really hot smart and get so far from the bottom teams their FO says f*ck it and pivots to competitive mode. But that's a 1% chance IMO. I'm more interested in Atlanta going through a horrendous, injury riddled season that bumps up its pick's top 4 chances.

[Raven]

thinking charlotte is probably a worse team that anyone expects.

[JPB]

thinking charlotte is probably a worse team that anyone expects.

You're probably right, ans they're gonna happily tank the last 20-30 last games of the season like half of the NBA for that highly praised 25 class. If Flagg and co. are doing well in College and Nolan shines in the french league, it's gonna be an epic fight for the bottom spots after the ASG.

[rascal]

Miami is not that good and has only gotten worse

Still good enough to hang with Charlotte and if Chrlotte is anywhere close to not making the playoffs they are going to tank to keep their pick.

[spurraider21]

Still good enough to hang with Charlotte and if Chrlotte is anywhere close to not making the playoffs they are going to tank to keep their pick.
Wow from a sure thing playoff team to “hanging with Charlotte” :lol

[rascal]

Wow from a sure thing playoff team to “hanging with Charlotte” :lol

Hanging with Charlotte is the worst case scenario so I don't see Charlotte making the playoffs.

[talkspurs]

Im not so sure adding IQ but losing Trent Jr makes them all that much better. But maybe Barnes continues to leap and IQ breaks out etc…but I just find it hard to say they’ve improved when all they have done is bring back guys they had last season and lose Gary Trent Jr and likely trade Bruce Brown sometime as well.

IQ did well when he was starting he did not get there till the end of they year. I also think Barnes and Poeltl were "hurt" towards the end. I am not saying they will be in the running for the title but I do think they will be a Playoff or at least a play in team.

[Jeffbob]

For those of us not tracking, what’s the parameters for getting this pick. Top what protected?

[spurraider21]

For those of us not tracking, what’s the parameters for getting this pick. Top what protected?
As the thread title says, it’s lottery protected

or basically we only get it if Charlotte makes the playoffs

[Mr. Body]

For those of us not tracking, what’s the parameters for getting this pick. Top what protected?

And if it does not convey this next year, it turns into us getting their own SRPs in 2026 and 2027.

[cd98]

I guarantee that Charlotte will be in the lottery. Every team that is not a contender will be trying to get one of those coveted top 4 spots with a prayer of getting number one. This is going to be a bunch of 2nd rounders.

[heyheymymy]

Wonder if SA kinda secretly wants some nice early seconds more than a 15-30 salary anyway.

[sfernald]

Wonder if SA kinda secretly wants some nice early seconds more than a 15-30 salary anyway.

They don’t really love the second rounders but they love the cash they’ll get for em.

[JPB]

Wonder if SA kinda secretly wants some nice early seconds more than a 15-30 salary anyway.

a 15-30 FRP is a better asset to trade than two middle SRPS picks.

[exstatic]

For those of us not tracking, what’s the parameters for getting this pick. Top what protected?
1-14.

[exstatic]

a 15-30 FRP is a better asset to trade than two middle SRPS picks.

Buzz around the draft this year was that picks in the 31-36 range were more desirable than 26-30 with all of their guarantees on salary.

[spurraider21]

1843799207041523974

[baseline bum]

1843799207041523974

How did Tijuana Saloon do tho?

[spurraider21]

How did Tijuana Saloon do tho?
tiddy salon knocked down some 3's in their preseason opener. 0-1 in 10 minutes so far today

[CorrectCrusader]

I have a feeling the Hornets will at least make the playin this year as long as Lamelo isn't injured. That team is really underrated

[exstatic]

I have a feeling the Hornets will at least make the playin this year as long as Lamelo isn't injured. That team is really underrated

They could, but the question is, WILL THEY? What does making the playoffs once do to compare to being in the tank for the biggest gold rush draft since 2003? They’ve shown the inclination to tank when there’s a payoff, and there certainly is this year.

[spurraider21]

i wouldnt bet on the hornets making the playoffs. they arguably have enough talent, but LaMelo and Mark Williams, arguably their 2 most important players when it comes to their chances of making the playoffs, are also their 2 most frail players. im also skeptical than Salaun will be a major contributor as a rookie (on the other hand, if they took somebody like Clingan as Williams' insurance, i think we could have seen earlier dividends)

their depth should be better than most of last year though. josh green signing was nice for them

LaMelo Ball
Josh Green
Brandon Miller
Miles Bridges
Mark Williams

thats a pretty reasonable starting 5 provided they're healthy. Green helps them defensively, Miller should improve in that category, but it all comes down to Mark Williams holding it down on that end. they have some decent reserve players like Tre Mann, Seth Curry, and Grant Williams. after that its just kind of filler like Nick Richards (reasonable reserve big but not a difference maker a all), Micic, Cody Martin, and then their super young players like Nick Smith and Tiddy Salon.

[CorrectCrusader]

Watching the Hornets pre-season game and Salaun looks like he could really be something. Huge and moves well. He has the tools.

[spurraider21]

Watching the Hornets pre-season game and Salaun looks like he could really be something. Huge and moves well. He has the tools.
he's been hitting his 3's in the preseason so far. 2-4 today

[Mugen]

There's almost a zero % chance that Hornets pick conveys as a 1st.

Even if by some miracle LaMelo and Mark Williams are still healthy halfway through the season and they're sniffing the play in, the FO will almost certainly employ a tank.

[spurraider21]

There's almost a zero % chance that Hornets pick conveys as a 1st.

Even if by some miracle LaMelo and Mark Williams are still healthy halfway through the season and they're sniffing the play in, the FO will almost certainly employ a tank.
if your boy salaun keeps hitting 3's like he's been this preseason theres a chance :lol

1843823579101839690

[exstatic]

There's almost a zero % chance that Hornets pick conveys as a 1st.

Even if by some miracle LaMelo and Mark Williams are still healthy halfway through the season and they're sniffing the play in, the FO will almost certainly employ a tank.
I agree. What’s the point of scratching and clawing to barely make the playoffs, get broomed by Boston in the first round, then hand your pick to San Antonio, missing out on the greatest draft in 22 years? There’s no logic or reason to it.

[LeBowen]

I agree. What’s the point of scratching and clawing to barely make the playoffs, get broomed by Boston in the first round, then hand your pick to San Antonio, missing out on the greatest draft in 22 years? There’s no logic or reason to it.

It's the Hornets. That's all the logic we need. :lmao

[exstatic]

It's the Hornets. That's all the logic we need. :lmao

Under MJ? Sure, but he’s been gone an entire season.

[Seventyniner]

I agree. What’s the point of scratching and clawing to barely make the playoffs, get broomed by Boston in the first round, then hand your pick to San Antonio, missing out on the greatest draft in 22 years? There’s no logic or reason to it.

Pride.

That and the fact that several East teams will be blatantly tanking, making it possible for the Hornets to maybe sneak into the 10 spot and be two games from the playoffs.

An outside shot but possible imo.

[exstatic]

Pride.

That and the fact that several East teams will be blatantly tanking, making it possible for the Hornets to maybe sneak into the 10 spot and be two games from the playoffs.

An outside shot but possible imo.

That’s a terrible reason to push yourself backwards in a draft that is thought to contain 7 likely All Stars and 3 All NBA/HOF candidates.

[BackHome]

Chicago looked pretty decent I think there is a good chance we get the pick in the next draft.

[Atl Spur]

Chicago looked pretty decent I think there is a good chance we get the pick in the next draft.

Hopefully in 26 being we only have a swap that year

[KingKev]

People are sleeping on Charlotte. Most of those guys can’t afford to lose. If the core of Melo, Bridges and Miller stay healthy they are going to be mildly competitive most nights. Could easily push for a play-in and then it is anyones game.

[exstatic]

They could, but again, why? Scrape into the playoffs, get broomed by Boston, and hand your pick to SA. Makes no sense, especially with a draft like this.

[CGD]

More likely they start strongish and then all their core players will start getting boo boos here and there after all star. Same with Bulls tbh.

[KingKev]

They could, but again, why? Scrape into the playoffs, get broomed by Boston, and hand your pick to SA. Makes no sense, especially with a draft like this.

I completely understand your point and reasoning but not all organizations operate with similar mentalities. How many years did it take PATFO to finally throw in the towel and tank? Charlotte has enough talent to push for the play-in and there is a chance they might is all I’m arguing.

[LeBowen]

As we discussed already a couple months back, there are a lot of bad teams in the East. Some will simply have to make the play-in and then who knows.

Celtics, Knicks, Bucks, Pacers, Heat, Cavs, Sixers, Magic are playoff teams. We'll see who gets into top6, but none of those teams will drop below 10th seed barring a catastrophic series of injuries.
Nets and Wizards bottomed out, I can't see them winning more than 20 games.
Bulls, Pistons, Raptors have some quality, but will surely try to get into top5 odds.

Hawks and Hornets are easily better than those bottom 5 teams, but also clearly worse than those 8 playoff teams.
Hawks will surely make the play-in because they have no incentive to tank and I can't see Hornets dropping to 11th seed or lower unless already mentioned injuries happen or Pistons finally start playing actual basketball.
If Hornets make the play-in, who knows. Maybe they face a injury-riddled playoff team or Lamelo goes off.
Hornets-Hawks 9th/10th play-in matchup with Hornets winning would be ideal for us.

[Mitch Cumsteen]

With so many eastern teams tanking, I think it's going to be tough to bottom out by changing streams midway through the season. So, if Charlotte gets out to anything resembling a decent start, they aren't going to be able to rack up enough L's to move their way out of the play-in. The bottom of the East is going to be a steaming pile of crap racing each other to the bottom.

[exstatic]

I completely understand your point and reasoning but not all organizations operate with similar mentalities. How many years did it take PATFO to finally throw in the towel and tank? Charlotte has enough talent to push for the play-in and there is a chance they might is all I’m arguing.

Oh,I totally agree that they could. As for throwing in the towel, they did it in 2023-2023 when we first got the pick in the Dejounte trade. They only have this coming season left to protect it, coupled with a really good draft.

[exstatic]

With so many eastern teams tanking, I think it's going to be tough to bottom out by changing streams midway through the season. So, if Charlotte gets out to anything resembling a decent start, they aren't going to be able to rack up enough L's to move their way out of the play-in. The bottom of the East is going to be a steaming pile of crap racing each other to the bottom.

Agreed. Some absolute crap team is going to make the actual Eastern playoffs.

[poopbox]

They could, but the question is, WILL THEY? What does making the playoffs once do to compare to being in the tank for the biggest gold rush draft since 2003? They’ve shown the inclination to tank when there’s a payoff, and there certainly is this year.

I think it has more to do with that coaching staff being brought in their to win and NOT to tank. They have another top 10 pick type of season some people on that staff and in that front office are going to be out of a job.

How much pressure there are on coaches to win is probably the biggest driving factor in winning. It's why the Spurs have been so bad the last few years, because their is absolutely no pressure on Pop to win or even compete for anything. And the only way it ever will be is if Victor says either we start winning or I'm giving you a list of teams I want to be traded to.

Not saying the Hornets won't be bad, there season begins and ends with Lamelo...but it will take him being out for a long time for them to outright start tanking.

[spurraider21]

Ideal scenario is the Charlotte pick conveying this year and the Bulls pick conveying next year. As it stands now, we have no extra FRPs in 2026, just the potential ATL swap.

Having 4 first rounders this year and then only 1 next year seems pretty bad.

Heck, even if we get 3 first rounders in 2025, it may make sense to trade one of them away for a future pick, out to 2028 or somethin. If we get 4 first rounders... not even sure what to do withem

[exstatic]

I think it has more to do with that coaching staff being brought in their to win and NOT to tank. They have another top 10 pick type of season some people on that staff and in that front office are going to be out of a job.

How much pressure there are on coaches to win is probably the biggest driving factor in winning. It's why the Spurs have been so bad the last few years, because their is absolutely no pressure on Pop to win or even compete for anything. And the only way it ever will be is if Victor says either we start winning or I'm giving you a list of teams I want to be traded to.

Not saying the Hornets won't be bad, there season begins and ends with Lamelo...but it will take him being out for a long time for them to outright start tanking.

Those are the people who go to ownership and lay out the options. If CHA tanks, no one’s job will be on the line. It’s never done without ownership’s blessing, including here. Pop doesn’t just unilaterally make that decision. There would be a meeting with Peter Holt, RC, Pop, and Wright.

[KingKev]

Those are the people who go to ownership and lay out the options. If CHA tanks, no one’s job will be on the line. It’s never done without ownership’s blessing, including here. Pop doesn’t just unilaterally make that decision. There would be a meeting with MYSELF, Peter Holt, RC, Pop, and Wright.

Fixed.

[vy65]

Could see them as high as 8th and as low as 10th, maybe 11th if they have health problems such that Toronto can overtake them.

Better:
1. BOS
2. PHI
3. NYK
4. CLE
5. MIL
6. ORL
7. IND

Toss-Up:
8. ATL?
9. MIA?
10. CHA?

Worse:
11. TOR
12. CHI
13. WAS
14. BKN
15. DET

[spurraider21]

Richards is a reasonable reserve big but he's not swinging the pendulum. still, with Mark Williams' injury history and concerns, not sure CHA would really want to part with him. also dno what player would head back in a hypothetical deal. jaxson hayes going back the other way?

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[Mr. Body]

Richards is a reasonable reserve big but he's not swinging the pendulum. still, with Mark Williams' injury history and concerns, not sure CHA would really want to part with him. also dno what player would head back in a hypothetical deal. jaxson hayes going back the other way?

1845935599272054799

Is this where the Lakers publicly go shopping but they ain't got no money?

[exstatic]

Is this where the Lakers publicly go shopping but they ain't got no money?

No, this is where the media invents, then pushes a trade to benefit the Lakers.

Like someone mentioned,it wouldn’t be wise for Charlotte to trade a competent backup with Mark Williams injury history.

[spurraider21]

Is this where the Lakers publicly go shopping but they ain't got no money?


No, this is where the media invents, then pushes a trade to benefit the Lakers.

Like someone mentioned,it wouldn’t be wise for Charlotte to trade a competent backup with Mark Williams injury history.
no, this is when for some reason, some people here preventively cope over a hypothetical lakers trade for a low impact player

[Mr. Body]

no, this is when for some reason, some people here preventively cope over a hypothetical lakers trade for a low impact player

With what assets?

[spurraider21]

With what assets?
for one thing, nick richards is a backup C making 5 mil per year. i dont think it would take significant assets like a FRP to acquire him. they could slap a couple of SRPs alongside matching salary like jaxson hayes/reddish and give the hornets enough cash to waive one. they dont need to move the earth and heavens to land nick richards :lol

[Mugen]

for one thing, nick richards is a backup C making 5 mil per year. i dont think it would take significant assets like a FRP to acquire him. they could slap a couple of SRPs alongside matching salary like jaxson hayes/reddish and give the hornets enough cash to waive one. they dont need to move the earth and heavens to land nick richards :lol

In the Sniff Crew's defense, BWrong got swindled into paying a shittier backup C in Zollins 3x the money...so I can see why the disconnect in trade value comes from tbh.

[mystargtr34]

Richards is a solid player but can’t see the Hornets trading him with how fragile Mark Williams is.

[exstatic]

Richards is a solid player but can’t see the Hornets trading him with how fragile Mark Williams is.

This. I don’t even see the Lakers assets mattering, since he likely isn’t on the market.

[scott]

I thought Williams was done for the year already? Is Richards their backup or their starter? Hornets really could have used someone like Big Daddy, who was had for a bargain by WAS.

[spurraider21]

I thought Williams was done for the year already? Is Richards their backup or their starter? Hornets really could have used someone like Big Daddy, who was had for a bargain by WAS.
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[spurraider21]

moved josh green to the bench and slid brandon miller down to the 2

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[KingKev]

This pick is a 50/50 ball. Those young fellas are talented and aren’t puppets to their organization. They are all trying to win and get fking paid.

[CGD]

moved josh green to the bench and slid brandon miller down to the 2

1846337382259298686

That is a team that can compete for a play-in game in my view, especially if Williams can get healthy. They also have a good new coach.

[spurraider21]

1848847995019923653

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[Mugen]

Mark Williams being made of glass and being OUT indefinitely should dispel any notion that the Hornets are sniffing the play in this season tbh.

[CGD]

^ Yeah, that dude is trending Oden right now. Shame, I thought he could be pretty decent.

[spurraider21]

^ Yeah, that dude is trending Oden right now. Shame, I thought he could be pretty decent.
Oden's injury history was far worse. drafted in 07

microfracture surgery to left knee so no true rookie year

foot/knee injuries including a chipped kneecap in year 1

fracture patella ended year 2 early

microfracture surgery to right knee before he would have played in year 3

didnt play again in a regular season game until 2014

[exstatic]

This pick is a 50/50 ball. Those young fellas are talented and aren’t puppets to their organization. They are all trying to win and get fking paid.

They paid LaMelo while losing. They might get into the playoffs if they try, and everything breaks right. One team from the East will be very bad, and get the #8: spot.

[TXstbobcat]

Hornets start the season with a win against the rockets 110-105

[Mr. Body]

We might get that pick if they play the Rockets every night.

[ismael-robert]

Hm salaun above says starter then wound up a dnp?

[The Truth #6]

It's interesting to see a player like Tiddy come in and play well right away, much better than anticipated. I will say playing for the Spurs is more demanding because pop actually requires players to learn team basketball, so who knows what would have happened if we had drafted this guy somehow. But so far this horrible draft is showing players who are doing much better than expected.

[spurraider21]

Miller only played about 10 minutes due to a hip injury. i dont know how serious that is.

salaun did not play at all which is a bit odd given how he was showcased during the preseason

and of course, their depth was hit because of both Mark Williams (sorely needed against Sengun) and Josh Green were out

[KingKev]

Melo is so fun to watch. If you gave Wemby Lamelo Ball and Brandon Miller we’d be in line to make the conference finals.

[Mr. Body]

Miller only played about 10 minutes due to a hip injury. i dont know how serious that is.

salaun did not play at all which is a bit odd given how he was showcased during the preseason

and of course, their depth was hit because of both Mark Williams (sorely needed against Sengun) and Josh Green were out

Salaun probably won't play for a while. He's super raw. He's eager and active as a Great Dane puppy dog but he has no idea what he's doing.

[Mr. Body]

Melo is so fun to watch. If you gave Wemby Lamelo Ball and Brandon Miller we’d be in line to make the conference finals.

:rollin

Lamelo Ball is an unserious basketball player. He'll win you a game here or there, but as a playoff guy? In an entire series? Absolutely fucking not. :lol Brandon Miller, who knows. He had one of the worst NCAA tournaments anyone has ever seen. Maybe he just sucks in the clutch or maybe he was feeling bad for getting a woman killed.

[spurraider21]

Brandon Miller cant wipe his own ass

1849829664396611757

[spurraider21]

Mr. Body (https://www.spurstalk.com/forums/member.php?u=397) glued to his screen watching the brilliant, aesthetically pleasing, and high IQ play between Trae Young and LaMelo Ball right now

[KingKev]

Mr. Body (https://www.spurstalk.com/forums/member.php?u=397) glued to his screen watching the brilliant, aesthetically pleasing, and high IQ play between Trae Young and LaMelo Ball right now

Wemby is more of a high IQ baller. His HOF coach doesn’t even challenge him.

30% from 3 on 6 attempts a game whilst averaging 4-5 turnovers.

[spurraider21]

hornets were down by as many as 13 from what i saw. ball hit a few big shots, lead down to 4 at the half

[spurraider21]

Melo questionable for todays game with a tailbone :lol

[DPG21920]

FML

[spurraider21]

:stirpot:

1851674566571016328

[Pauleta14]

Injuries ae pilling up daily...

And nice for the CHA pick that we could be able to swap for a 20131 & 20132 swaps

[exstatic]

:stirpot:

1851674566571016328

Thank you Atlanta and Houston for jumping over Toronto last year, pushing them back from 6 to 8. There’s no way we’d get the TOR pick this year.

[spurraider21]

hornets had a nice lead but the raptors went on a nice run. hornets now up 5 at the half.

both teams are pretty banged up. barnes out for toronto. brandon miller and mark williams still out for charlotte

[spurraider21]

ugh, charlotte had a hot start to the quarter then just making stupid, stupid mistakes and letting toronto get easy layups. turnovers, lob attempts when they arent there, bridges pulling up for 3 when they have numbers on the break. right after he made a great play to block a transition layup as well

so many low IQ plays by Bridges who is talented to a frustrating degree (aside from being a total POS)

edit: oh wow, apparently the hornets were up by as much as 23 earlier. i didnt tune in that soon.

[spurraider21]

6 offensive rebounds in the first 6 minutes of the third quarter for toronto...

[scott]

I hate that these draft picks have me watching some of the worst basketball possible.

[spurraider21]

lamelo saving the day. a couple of big shots, big defensive plays, and assist for a tre mann 3

into the 4th now, lamelo continues to look really good. not that toronto has a tough matchup for him, but ive been pretty impressed with his defense as well. offensively, his vision/passing is really f'n good.

[spurraider21]

I hate that these draft picks have me watching some of the worst basketball possible.
watching that charlotte bench unit was really really ugly tbh :lol

they desperately need brandon miller and mark williams

but nice fun run to end the third on a high note. grant williams has actually been reasonably good for them despite the dumb turnover/foul every now and again

[scott]

Looks like CHA decided they were done fucking around with TOR.

DET blowing out PHI and the Wiz up over ATL. ORL gonna blow out CHI though.

Bilal looks good to start the season.

[spurraider21]

Looks like CHA decided they were done fucking around with TOR.

DET blowing out PHI and the Wiz up over ATL. ORL gonna blow out CHI though.

Bilal looks good to start the season.
care much less about chicago since that one has 3 years to convey and the protections actually get lighter after this year

bilal has really leveled up

as it relates to hornets, nick richards looks to be in much better shape than last year

[baseline bum]

ugh, charlotte had a hot start to the quarter then just making stupid, stupid mistakes and letting toronto get easy layups. turnovers, lob attempts when they arent there, bridges pulling up for 3 when they have numbers on the break. right after he made a great play to block a transition layup as well

so many low IQ plays by Bridges who is talented to a frustrating degree (aside from being a total POS)

edit: oh wow, apparently the hornets were up by as much as 23 earlier. i didnt tune in that soon.

Just give it up, we're never getting that pick

[spurraider21]

Just give it up, we're never getting that pick
shut up hoe

[baseline bum]

shut up hoe

Your boy has a better chance of beating Sigrun on the first try than we have of that pick conveying.

[Mr. Body]

Nothing about Charlotte looks convincing. I'm curious to see how they integrate Brandon Miller when he gets back.

Tre Mann is a big plus for them, who they got for the corpse of Gordon Hayward. Genius Presti move.

[spurraider21]

if charlotte beats boston today...

[spurraider21]

nick richards is actually playing quite well this year. i just dont think they have the horses. boston is already pretty ridiculous, and no brandon miller

[Bruno]

Tbh, it's enjoyable to follow the ECF this year. Spurs will have Hawks pick and maybe Bulls and/or Hornets picks. There are also some interesting stories developing with teams like Bucks and Sixers struggling. It adds some fun to Spurs' season.

[spurraider21]

unfortunately this wont be one of the fun ones to follow. boston is overwhelming them rn. seth curry defending jaylen brown :lol

[spurraider21]

charlotte somehow only down 4, wtf :lol

[spurraider21]

1852464619987886458

[Mr. Body]

Not sure how CHA is keeping it close.

Boston plays them again... tomorrow night. NBA scheduling is beyond stupid sometimes.

[spurraider21]

Not sure how CHA is keeping it close.
you know why but it pains you to admit it


Boston plays them again... tomorrow night. NBA scheduling is beyond stupid sometimes.
this would be the one to steal...

[spurraider21]

you'd think grant williams would be one of those steadying vet presences for this team but he legit has made some of the lowest IQ plays for them this season

bridges has been awful all game though. this is the type of game they really needed him to step up

[spurraider21]

lol charlotte has a 3 on 2 with lamelo standing wide open in the corner and grant williams gets called for an illegal screen during the break. and now 5 fouls on lamelo. jaylen brown has been a bully all game

yeah now gg. tbh awful missed call where jaylen hacked the hell out of mann, and then a technical foul the other way.

[spurraider21]

:lol #4 seed in the east

[exstatic]

:lol #4 seed in the east

From the lottery a day ago!

[mystargtr34]

On the road against a Philly team without Embiid and Maxey.

Hornets should win this on paper and get to .500 but it feels like one of those games they’ll lose cause they’re the Hornets.

[exstatic]

On the road against a Philly team without Embiid and Maxey.

Hornets should win this on paper and get to .500 but it feels like one of those games they’ll lose cause they’re the Hornets.

Miller is back, tho…

[onechance87]

east is so trash

[Rubberducky]

These sixers commentators are awful.

[onechance87]

charlote sorry ass team like us.

[Rubberducky]

In the last 15 seconds of overtime:

- Hornets win the challenge on the no call, which prevented a fast break to take the lead. They have to win a jump ball and use a timeout.

- Hornets miss the corner three and get the offensive rebound but a foul is called, replay showed a clean steal on the ball.

- Philly player not only misses both free throws but a) he commits an obvious 10 seconds and b) Philly player boxes out into the middle of the paint before the shot is up.

- Hornets player is fouled on the rebound and no call. Hornets forced to foul. Game.

[rascal]

Give it up

Spurs are not getting the first round pick

[ambchang]

:lmao how someone can trust lamelo ball is just behind me.
If Charlotte is smart they should trade that inefficient playground chucker and build around mama killer.

[TXstbobcat]

Hornets take down the Bucks today. Hornets now the 8 seed in the east.

[exstatic]

The thing is, there are no EC teams between them and pick #8. If they lose one game, they drop from pick 15 to pick 8. It’s the same with ATL/DET/MIA. They’re all a loss or two from mid lottery.

[Mr. Body]

Some of these teams will eventually pack it in as the incentive to tank overwhelms the desire to win.

Milwaukee has looked better, but they don't look great. They cannot tank.

Indiana hasn't looked great, but should push for the POs. Miami. Those are 5-win teams that will probably push for wins.

Philadelphia is a hard call. I think they'll try to turn it around. They're only 3 wins away from the middle of the pack.

Detroit, Brooklyn have no reason to push for the play-in.

Charlotte and Chicago have strong incentives to start losing before long. I don't actually know if they will. The Bulls are a weird team in that they want to field a mildly competitive team. Charlotte goes around half-cocked with anybody's guess what they want to do.

[exstatic]

Some of these teams will eventually pack it in as the incentive to tank overwhelms the desire to win.

Milwaukee has looked better, but they don't look great. They cannot tank.

Indiana hasn't looked great, but should push for the POs. Miami. Those are 5-win teams that will probably push for wins.

Philadelphia is a hard call. I think they'll try to turn it around. They're only 3 wins away from the middle of the pack.

Detroit, Brooklyn have no reason to push for the play-in.

Charlotte and Chicago have strong incentives to start losing before long. I don't actually know if they will. The Bulls are a weird team in that they want to field a mildly competitive team. Charlotte goes around half-cocked with anybody's guess what they want to do.

Actually, they can, but it’s risky. They own their pick if it’s 1-4, but if they finish in one of those spots, it’s just a bit better than a coin flip to stay in the top 4.

[scott]

The thing is, there are no EC teams between them and pick #8. If they lose one game, they drop from pick 15 to pick 8. It’s the same with ATL/DET/MIA. They’re all a loss or two from mid lottery.

It’s early, but I think we’re in for quite the exciting tankathon!

[spurraider21]

1859703654720340174

[CGD]

Man, starting to think Marc Williams is done. What a shame.

[spurraider21]

Man, starting to think Marc Williams is done. What a shame.
weird time to have this thought right after a positive report :lol

[spurraider21]

up 14 at the end of the 3rd against detroit :tu

edit: 5 point game with 3 and a half to go

hold the door

[spurraider21]

the choke job :pctoss

[onechance87]

charlotte come on man.

[spurraider21]

miller has been a monster in OT

[SpursFan86]

Just need LaMelo and Brandon Miller to stay healthy and we have a decent chance tbh

[onechance87]

Just need LaMelo and Brandon Miller to stay healthy and we have a decent chance tbh

and richards and williams as well.Should help with defence getting their bigs back if healthy.

[Strategic]

Choking pistons

[DPG21920]

Whew, CHA almost blew it after leading for majority of game.

[Mr. Body]

Hornets legit one of the dumbest teams I've ever seen at this level.

[cutewizard]

Guys, what pick can we get here? (highest probability)

[Maddog]

Guys, what pick can we get here? (highest probability)

2025 first round draft pick from Charlotte
Charlotte's 2025 1st round pick to San Antonio protected for selections 1-14; if this pick falls within its protected range and is therefore not conveyed, then Charlotte will instead convey its 2026 2nd round pick and 2027 2nd round draft pick to San Antonio (via New York to Atlanta) [Charlotte-New York, 7/30/2021; Atlanta-New York, 1/13/2022; Atlanta-San Antonio, 6/30/2022]

It's going to be a stretch- could easily see them have "injuries" towards the second half of the year if a possibility

[Mugen]

Hornets legit one of the dumbest teams I've ever seen at this level.

Did you not watch the 2023-2024 Spurs tbh?

[cutewizard]

2025 first round draft pick from Charlotte
Charlotte's 2025 1st round pick to San Antonio protected for selections 1-14; if this pick falls within its protected range and is therefore not conveyed, then Charlotte will instead convey its 2026 2nd round pick and 2027 2nd round draft pick to San Antonio (via New York to Atlanta) [Charlotte-New York, 7/30/2021; Atlanta-New York, 1/13/2022; Atlanta-San Antonio, 6/30/2022]

It's going to be a stretch- could easily see them have "injuries" towards the second half of the year if a possibility

Thanks good Sir

May Charlotte be in the 15th horizon then.....

[CorrectCrusader]

Charlotte is currently tied in record for the 8th seed in the east so that's good

[spurraider21]

charlotte is kinda always scrambling because they have no interior presence right now. they're having long stretches of Grant Williams at center. he's held up reasonably relative to expectations but they have to over-rotate a lot to compensate for lack of rim presence. Diabate had to play huge minutes yesterday

[spurraider21]

Grant Williams torn ACL

[onechance87]

Grant Williams torn ACL

damn

[Mr. Body]

Grant Williams was maybe the smartest player the Hornets have and even he's a bonehead.

[Mugen]

The Melo 4-6 week injury should come in before the new year too tbh

[InRareForm]

When is Nick Richards coming back.

Diabete can rebound but can't score

[spurraider21]

When is Nick Richards coming back.

Diabete can rebound but can't score
1861112178733908005

[onechance87]

need salaun to step up.The hornets and spurs need you:)

[CGD]

Brandon Miller is a stud.

[spurraider21]

Ball and Miller are the only ones capable of doing anything offensively today. Orlando's defense has keyed in on that, and the two have combined for 13 turnovers. It's games like this where they could use Miles Bridges as another scorer, but he's out today.

[spurraider21]

jonathan isaac has made three 3 pointers in the 4th quarter

coming into the game he had made 11 all season, on less than 29% from distance

[spurraider21]

charlotte remains extremely short-handed right now

Mark Williams and Nick Richards both still out, but appear to be nearing returns. Miles Bridges out. Tre Mann out and evidently not responding as well as they'd hope. And of course, Grant Williams done for the year

1861905676387450944

[spurraider21]

miracle comeback by hornets, then miller loses the ball to herro, and then cody martin gets fouled down 2 and bricks the free throw lol

[scott]

Keith Smith did a trade rumor show this morning and is saying that Jake Fisher is reporting that Melo is on the trade block. If that’s true, doesn’t sound like CHA is trying to make the playoffs.

[ambchang]

Or they are trying to make the playoffs. :lol

I’d trade lamelo for some good picks and young players in a heartbeat, but only for basketball reasons. He is such an undisciplined player that I felt he’s a worse version of Tre young.

Merchandise wise though, lamelo makes teams so much money it’s hard to pass on him.

[onechance87]

strong rumors that both bulls and hornets want to trade to go full tank.Just a matter of time.Curious to see what nets and pistons do.
They havent looked to bad.

[exstatic]

strong rumors that both bulls and hornets want to trade to go full tank.Just a matter of time.Curious to see what nets and pistons do.
They havent looked to bad.

Charlotte has a better chance if they’re really trying to burn it down. Even though he’s a clown, Lamelo is entertaining, and frankly, the NBA is a circus.

[jesterbobman]

I don't think the Hornets are making the playoffs, so I hope they suck completely and give us two picks at #31 in 2026 and 2027.

I doubt they trade LaMelo unless they get a huge haul in assets - He's the most all star like player they've had in ages, and while he's a clown, he's a 6'8" passing wizard who's a good athlete, who can shoot 3s at high volume, has instincts / reaction speed to get steals (not a good defender, but he has tools). Rare combination.

[exstatic]

I don't think the Hornets are making the playoffs, so I hope they suck completely and give us two picks at #31 in 2026 and 2027.

I doubt they trade LaMelo unless they get a huge haul in assets - He's the most all star like player they've had in ages, and while he's a clown, he's a 6'8" passing wizard who's a good athlete, who can shoot 3s at high volume, has instincts / reaction speed to get steals (not a good defender, but he has tools). Rare combination.

The thing about Melo is that if he isn’t sidelined, he’s likely to wreck your chances at a player that you CAN build your team around. He’s also unrestricted next time around, and with LeBron aging out, will be a likely Lakers target. Best to get something rather than nothing, and aid your tank at the same time.

[onechance87]

The Melo 4-6 week injury should come in before the new year too tbh

out two weeks could be longer lol

[Raven]

charlotte is really trying hard to get that megabust salaun going

[spurraider21]

Melo is absurdly talented, yet does play immaturely. i cant really blame him, give the environment he's been in. their roster right now isnt abysmal on paper but theyve also been as plagued by injury as anybody. charlotte committed malpractice taking Salaun when they needed more immediate roster help. with williams' injury record, Clingan should have been their guy

theyve had like 6-7 guys listed as out in some games already.

[spurraider21]

1864838400114905408

[spurraider21]

also they have both mark williams and nick richars back. seems they're really easing Williams back, though, he's coming off the bench for now

[spurraider21]

lock this one up too

[Davidicus]

I’m going to save so much time and effort wondering if Charlotte is winning every night

[John B]

Yup this will never convey, one less thing to worry about

[Mr. Body]

Ladies and Gentlemen, starting tonight you are now free from caring whether Charlotte wins games (they won't) nor exactly where Chicago places (other than better than Atlanta). Good day.