Charlotte Hornets Hold Fourth Pick in 2025 NBA Draft

The Charlotte Hornets faced a potential franchise-defining moment Monday night. With a 14% chance at the No. 1 overall pick — and a 7% chance of falling as low as seventh — their lottery fate was set to shape the franchise’s direction. The results are as follows: the Hornets will select fourth overall in the 2025 NBA Draft.

While the outcome may not have been the results the franchises wanted, Charlotte now has a chance to add another promising piece to its young core of LaMelo Ball, Brandon Miller, and Mark Williams. With a pivotal offseason ahead — and potential roster shake-ups looming — this pick could spark a summer of bold decisions for lead executive Jeff Peterson.

So, which prospects could the Hornets target at fourth? And how might each fit into the current roster structure? Let’s dive in.

Hornets Fourth Pick Prospect: VJ Edgecombe

VJ Edgecombe is an explosive 6’5” guard with elite athleticism and defensive upside. He’s a high-energy, two-way guard who plays with a chip on his shoulder. He’ll likely develop as a downhill slasher and tough on-ball defender at Baylor.

Edgecombe fits as a high-motor, high-upside role player who could develop into a starter. His defense and athleticism complement Ball well, and he brings intensity that could raise the team’s floor defensively. His transition game and slashing ability also give the Hornets a much-needed pace and rim pressure boost.

Draft Prospect: Kon Knueppel

Kon Knueppel is a 6’6” wing from Duke known for his elite shooting, high basketball IQ, and unselfish play. He isn’t the most explosive athlete, but he makes up for it with intelligent decision-making, strong fundamentals, and the ability to impact the game without dominating the ball.

For the Hornets, Knueppel offers immediate value as a floor spacer and connector. His shooting would complement Ball’s playmaking and Miller’s versatility, helping to create a more balanced, efficient offense. His feel for the game and unselfish style make him a natural fit alongside Charlotte’s developing core.

Draft Prospect: Tre Johnson

Tre Johnson is a natural scorer with a polished perimeter game. The 6’6” Texas guard has deep range, a smooth pull-up, and enough shiftiness to get his shot off at all three levels. While he’s not an elite defender yet, he competes and has the tools to develop into a two-way threat.

Johnson adds perimeter scoring and floor spacing to a team that ranked near the bottom of the league in three-point shooting. He can grow into a lead scorer or complement Ball and Miller as an off-ball threat. Think of a modern NBA shooting guard with a star upside.

In Conclusion

Landing the fourth pick allows the Hornets to add a key piece to their young core. While the Hornets are missing top-tier prospects, players like VJ Edgecombe, Kon Knueppel, and Tre Johnson offer strong fits. Despite missing the first pick, the Hornets’ front office is optimistic about the available talent.

Edgecombe brings elite athleticism, defensive intensity, and slashing ability — qualities the Hornets need on the perimeter. Meanwhile, Knueppel offers polished shooting, a high basketball IQ, and a steady presence who can space the floor and make smart plays alongside LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller. Tre Johnson adds scoring punch with deep range and a versatile offensive game, giving the Hornets a potential lead scorer or elite off-ball threat. This pick could be pivotal in shaping the franchise’s future, whichever direction the Hornets choose.