The Charlotte Hornets look like an NBA franchise on the rise. People ridiculed their decision to pay Gordon Hayward so much money in free agency, but it is a deal that has worked out for them, as there is optimism surrounding the team.
Hayward has brought a veteran presence to help stabilize a seemingly rudderless team. LaMelo Ball looks like a star as the future point guard and Terry Rozier continues to impress after betting on himself and leaving the Boston Celtics the season before Hayward. P.J. Washington is blossoming in the frontcourt
This has resulted in Charlotte being in the thick of the playoff race in the Eastern Conference. They are 17-18 and in sixth place with room to grow. The only thing they are missing is a long-term piece in the middle.
Cody Zeller and Bismack Biyombo are both free agents following this season. While both bring some positives to the table, neither are looked at as the long-term answer for the Hornets at the center spot. That is where John Collins could come in.
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Collins and the Atlanta Hawks look destined to part ways sooner than later, whether it’s via trade before the deadline or when Collins hits restricted free agency this summer. That is a situation the Hornets should capitalize on.
Yes, the fit with Collins could be awkward at times defensively, as he is only 6’9”. But he averages 1.0 block per game in his career and there is no denying the skill and talent upgrade he would provide.
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The former Wake Forest product has proven to be a solid 3-point shooter, resulting in some efficient offense and the ability to keep the middle of the floor open. Given his athleticism, can you imagine the highlights that would be created with him in the open court and Ball throwing him lobs for alley-oops?
What would it cost to land Collins? The Hawks are looking for a high first-round, lottery-level pick. Could the price be a little higher for the Hornets, a team the Hawks are directly competing against for a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference?
If the Hornets believe Collins is a long-term piece, that price is worth paying. At 23-years old, Collins fits the team’s timeline.
While there would be some defensive limitations, especially if Washington is paired with John Collins as the power forward in the frontcourt, the offensive potential is immense. Charlotte would be difficult to slow down with a starting five of Ball, Rozier, Hayward, Washington and Collins.
