Charlotte Hornets Depth Chart: Who Secures Opening Night Starts?

With two preseason games left, the Charlotte Hornets are still experimenting with their starting five. LaMelo Ball, Miles Bridges, and Brandon Miller have been consistent, but the remaining spots have seen a variety of players.

Kon Knueppel started in the opener, Tre Mann took the second, and Collin Sexton paired with Ryan Kalkbrenner at center in game three. The Hornets’ summer additions have given them depth, but also left the team searching for the best combinations.

With the regular season looming, which players should claim the two open spots? Could one stand out and cement a starting role? Let’s take a closer look.

Collin Sexton’s Push for a Starting Spot

The Hornets’ preseason suggests two possible paths for the backcourt. If Mann or Sexton start, Miller could slide to small forward. Alternatively, with Knueppel in the mix, Miller might take the shooting guard spot.

Sexton makes a strong case for a starting role. In 407 career games, he’s started 335, averaging 20.0 points, 3.9 assists, and 2.9 rebounds on 47% shooting, including 39.2% from three.

Beyond the stats, Sexton brings energy and intensity that the Hornets’ starting unit desperately needs. His effort can set the tone early and help the team jump out to strong starts.

Connecting the Pieces

While Sexton’s scoring and energy will likely define the backcourt, the Hornets’ success will also hinge on stability in the frontcourt. The center position, which underwent a major overhaul this offseason, will play a key role in balancing the lineup. How the Hornets fill this spot could determine not only defensive consistency but also how effectively the team spaces the floor and supports its perimeter stars. With depth in place, the starting center must complement Sexton and the backcourt while anchoring the team inside.

Finding The Hornets Next Anchor

The Hornets overhauled the center position this summer. Mark Williams was traded to the Phoenix Suns, and Jusuf Nurkić was traded for Sexton, leaving the team thin behind Moussa Diabaté.

To fill the gap, the Hornets added veteran Mason Plumlee and drafted Ryan Kalkbrenner in the second round. Each brings a distinct skill set.

Diabate is an elite offensive rebounder and reliable rim protector, though limited offensively. Plumlee is a steady veteran who does all the little things right. Kalkbrenner showed promise with a 14-point, 10-rebound performance in the Hornets’ only preseason win.

Considering system familiarity and playstyle, Diabate is the likely starter. Kalkbrenner remains a developmental piece, while Plumlee provides depth for the second unit.

In Conclusion

As the preseason wraps up, the Charlotte Hornets are still piecing together their starting five, but one thing is clear: the team has options. Collin Sexton’s energy and scoring punch could ignite the backcourt, while Moussa Diabate’s familiarity with Charles Lee’s system anchors the center spot.

A single player won’t define this season—it will be shaped by how the Hornets combine their depth, versatility, and effort on the floor. With key roles still up for grabs, the team has the chance to find chemistry, balance, and identity before opening night.

The Hornets stand ready to realize their potential. The question isn’t just who starts—it’s who steps up and leads the Hornets into a season of opportunity.