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Hornets may have plenty of offense, but ESPN sees one thing missing

The Hornets suddenly have a lot more offensive talent. What they may not have is someone who organizes all of it. ESPN identified Charlotte’s biggest roster hole as a pass-first playmaker after the team traded LaMelo Ball to Minnesota over…

By Hoops Wire · Yard Barker

Published: Monday, 12 October 2026 at 4:17 PM

Key Things to Know

ESPN identified a pass-first playmaker as the Charlotte Hornets' biggest roster deficiency following the departure of LaMelo Ball.
Charlotte traded Ball to Minnesota over the summer after he led the franchise in assists for six straight seasons.
Head coach Charles Lee will utilize multiple ballhandlers, including Kon Knueppel, Coby White, Dennis Schroder, and Brandon Miller.

The Story in 60 Seconds

ESPN identified Charlotte's primary roster void as a pass-first playmaker following the offseason trade that sent LaMelo Ball to Minnesota. Ball had led the Charlotte Hornets in assists for six consecutive seasons, serving as the team's primary offensive organizer before the move.

Head coach Charles Lee now relies on multiple ballhandlers, including Kon Knueppel, Coby White, Dennis Schroder, and Brandon Miller. Hoops Wire notes that while Charlotte improved to fifth in offense last season, concerns remain regarding late-game execution without a dedicated lead facilitator.

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Hornets may have plenty of offense, but ESPN sees one thing missing

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