The Charlotte Hornets could be one of the NBA's more exciting teams heading into the new season, especially if they can take the kind of step forward that has been projected for them. Charlotte has been included in an ESPN list among the teams that could make a major leap this season, giving the franchise a chance to change the perception surrounding it. The Hornets aren't being projected to make the biggest jump in the league, but they're still getting looks as a possible surprise.
That alone should make 2026-27 a hopeful season in Charlotte. Sports news: Wizards and AJ Dybantsa Could Have a Breakout Year The Hornets received 10 points in ESPN's ranking of the teams most likely to make a major leap, tying them with the Portland Trail Blazers for seventh place. They trailed the Atlanta Hawks, Philadelphia 76ers, Dallas Mavericks, Washington Wizards, Utah Jazz and Indiana Pacers.
While Charlotte's total was lower than the 46 points earned by both Indiana and Utah, the Hornets still made the list ahead of several teams that weren't included at all. That's important because the ranking is specifically looking for teams that could surprise people with a substantial improvement. Charlotte doesn't need to be the biggest surprise in the NBA for this projection to mean something.
After finishing 19-63 last season, even a substantial improvement would dramatically change the outlook surrounding the franchise. More sports: Pistons Hit With Troubling 2026 Projection, But There’s Hope ESPN's panel ultimately gave Charlotte 10 points, putting the Hornets in a tie for seventh. The Hawks received 14 points, while Philadelphia and Dallas each had 15.
Washington finished with 20, and Indiana and Utah led the group with 46 apiece. So, the Hornets aren't being picked as the favorite to make the biggest leap. But, they're being identified as one of the teams worth keeping tabs on.
That's a solid position for Charlotte.
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