After a surprising NBA Draft lottery night that reshuffled much of the top 10, one thing held firm. Charlotte stayed put at No. 4. While the Hornets didn’t move up, they remain in prime position to add a foundational piece to their young core. With that clarity, it's time to examine the prospects who could best complement this roster and perhaps elevate its long-term trajectory. First up is a two-way force with shades of former NBA superstar Dwyane Wade.
The Hornets are buzzing with potential, but they’re one piece away from competing in the Eastern Conference. Enter VJ Edgecombe, the 2025 NBA Draft’s most electrifying two-way talent, whose defensive strength and offensive dependability could vault the Hornets into the play-in conversation. With LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller already in place, Edgecombe’s elite skill set addresses Charlotte’s desperate need for a defensive anchor on the wing.
Edgecombe is known for being a disruptor. His explosive athleticism and relentless motor let him hound guards and wings, switching seamlessly and erasing plays with chase-down blocks that echo prime Wade. In a clash against Houston, he showed his smarts, grinding on the boards early before flipping a switch.
A three-pointer at the nine-minute mark sparked a 3-for-3 shooting burst, paired with two rebounds and a block that left the crowd in awe of his athleticism. That adaptability screams upside, masking Ball’s defensive lapses alongside Josh Green in the backcourt and Mark Williams in the paint.
On offense, Edgecombe’s slashing is straight out of Wade’s Miami playbook. His rim-rattling attacks and improving jumper (with shooting splits mirroring Wade’s early years) sync perfectly with Ball’s playmaking. He’s not here to replace LaMelo, but rather to amplify the Hornets offense, thriving as a second or third option with room to grow. Edgecombe could form a wing tandem with Miller that would be equal parts lockdown and highlight factory.
For the Hornets, drafting Edgecombe isn’t just a roster tweak. He'll be a solid addition to the lineup. Add a few savvy veterans to this young core, and Charlotte’s got the balance to crash the playoff race. His defensive fire and offensive spark make him the missing piece to create a buzz desperately needed in Charlotte.