Every NBA fanbase who has been eliminated from playoff contention or is on the verge of being eliminated has turned their focus to the 2025 NBA Draft, where Duke's Cooper Flagg is the crown jewel who could turn a franchise around in a hurry.
Among those who could greatly benefit from landing the No. 1 overall pick is the Charlotte Hornets. They own the NBA's longest playoff drought and have been riddled with injuries for three consecutive seasons. The wins may not be there to show it, but the Hornets have some of the best young pieces in basketball with LaMelo Ball, Brandon Miller, and Mark Williams.