The Charlotte Hornets and Brooklyn Nets are set to open their 2025-26 NBA seasons Wednesday night at Spectrum Center, with both franchises debuting new-look rosters after busy offseasons.
Charlotte entered this season with optimism after adding a mix of youth and experience. The Hornets used both of their first-round selections in June’s draft to select Kon Knueppel and Liam McNeely, two versatile wings expected to play key rotational roles this season. Brooklyn, meanwhile, made a splash with three first-round picks, selecting Egor Demin, Nolan Traore and Ben Saraf as part of a long-term rebuild focused on developing young international talent.
Both teams were also active in the trade market. Charlotte reshaped its frontcourt by trading Mark Williams and Jusuf Nurkic, while adding Collin Sexton, Pat Connaughton and multiple draft picks. The Nets, on the other hand, executed a headline deal that sent Cameron Johnson to the Denver Nuggets in exchange for Michael Porter Jr. and a future first-round pick.
Heading into Wednesday’s matchup, Brooklyn will be without just one player — Haywood Highsmith, who remains sidelined following offseason knee surgery. Charlotte’s injury report is slightly longer, with Josh Green (shoulder) and Grant Williams (knee) both ruled out for the season opener.
Last season, both teams finished near the bottom of the Eastern Conference standings, separated by seven games. Brooklyn placed 12th, while Charlotte finished 14th. The two clubs split their season series, one game apiece.
Each team is hopeful to get off to a strong start heading into the 2025-26 season.