The Charlotte Hornets are strategically positioning themselves ahead of the upcoming NBA trade deadline. Their roster currently features 19 players but only one, LaMelo Ball, ranks in the top sixty for Daily Plus-Minus (DPM). This metric is crucial for evaluating a player’s true talent by analyzing various performance data.
Current Player Performance
LaMelo Ball ranks 40th in DPM, while teammates Kon Knueppel and Moussa Diabate are placed at 87th and 91st, respectively. Tidjane Salaün, however, sits at 506th. The performance metrics suggest that the Hornets require a more consistent contributor in their frontcourt, particularly a stretch four who can defend, rebound, and shoot threes reliably.
Trade Deadline Needs
As the trade deadline approaches, the Hornets are in need of a player similar to Salaün. Ideally, this player would be adept at playing both the four and five positions. While Salaün has shown potential, he may take more time to develop into a regular contributor. Finding a versatile stretch four with strong defensive skills is essential for the team’s success.
Potential Target: Jalen Smith
Chicago Bulls forward Jalen Smith has emerged as a promising candidate for the Hornets. Currently ranking 54th in DPM, Smith has been surprisingly overlooked in trade talks. His statistics indicate that he could be a valuable asset for Charlotte.
- Smith’s net rating is +6.5 while on the court.
- When off the court, the Bulls’ rating drops to -7.7, resulting in a +14.2 on/off differential.
- He excels defensively, ranking in the 60th percentile or better in several defensive categories.
- Offensively, he averages 17.9 points and 12.7 rebounds per 75 possessions.
Moreover, Smith is efficient with the ball, only using it 8% of the time, while his teammates produce a 92.5 effective field goal percentage on his assists. His skills as a defensive and offensive rebounder are noteworthy, placing him in the top percentiles for both categories.
A Low-Cost, High-Impact Option
At just 25 years old, Jalen Smith aligns well with the Hornets’ timeline for growth. He is likely to be available at a reasonable price, potentially providing the team with a high-leverage frontcourt player who can stabilize their lineup. His addition would not only enhance the current team dynamics but also allow younger players like Salaün to develop further.
As the Charlotte Hornets make their strategic moves as the trade deadline approaches, Jalen Smith seems to be an ideal candidate. His impact could prove vital in elevating the Hornets’ performance in the upcoming stretch of the season.
