West Franklin Media’s 2026 NBA Draft Hornets Deep Dive
2026 NBA Draft Preview
As we inch closer to the NBA Finals, it is only right that we start thinking about the NBA Draft. Here at West Franklin Media we are excited to give you our 2026 NBA Draft Big Board and give you who we think the Hornets should target.
What pick do the Hornets have?
The Hornets own the 14th and the 18th pick in the first round of the 2026 draft.
No second-round picks.
What are their holes?
The Hornets could use potentially an off-guard or combo guard to play off of LaMelo Ball (and Coby White if he is re-signed, more on that later). The Hornets could also take the best big man available, or potentially a point guard/combo guard that can defend and come off the bench.
My Choices
Yaxel Lendeborg — Motor, defend, hit open threes, winner.
Cam Car — Arm length, agility (2nd fastest lane agility time in the combine). Can play off of LaMelo as well as Coby if he is re-signed.
Best player available if both are gone.
I love Moussa Diabaté. I think he had a strong showing in the first play-in game in Charlotte against Miami. I think he could get better at defense, but the potential is definitely there. I also like Ryan Kalkbrenner. You definitely want these big men to develop, but would not be opposed to drafting another big if the Front Office wants options. Not sure what the Front Office’s thoughts on Aday Mara out of Michigan are.
Free Agency Opportunities
What does cap space look like?
The first priority should be re-signing Coby White. After re-signing Coby, the team should still have room for the Non-Tax Payer MLE.
I would look into Rui Hachimura in Los Angeles. If Rob Pelinka and new Laker front office addition Rohan Ramadas do not re-sign Rui, which I expect to happen.
University of North Carolina great Harrison Barnes could also be an option if the Iowa native is looking to return to the Carolinas. Bruce Brown could also fit the mold.
West Franklin Media · NBA Draft 2026 · Charlotte Hornets