Will the Hornets send clear message with an aggressive trade in 2025 NBA draft?

So close… yet one spot away from a game-changer. Sitting just outside the top three in the 2025 NBA Draft, the Hornets find themselves within striking distance of a player who could reshape their franchise identity.

With Cooper Flagg and likely Dylan Harper off the board, all eyes turn to Ace Bailey. A dynamic scorer, yes, but one whose all-around game has sparked debate. Is he a high-upside project or a plug-and-play difference-maker? Meanwhile, rising whispers around the league suggest that VJ Edgecombe may actually be the more NBA-ready prospect during his cycle. An elite athlete with defensive instincts and explosive slashing ability is a huge plus for any team.

Sitting at No. 3 is the Philadelphia 76ers, who are eyeing a win-now piece. Many see Edgecombe as their guy. It wouldn’t be the first time Charlotte missed out. Just like in 2005, when Chris Paul went one pick ahead to New Orleans. If that’s true, the Hornets might risk watching their ideal cultural cornerstone get picked right before their eyes.

The question then becomes are the Hornets front office really willing to gamble on fate again? Will this be the year Charlotte gets aggressive? Packaging assets and moving up just one spot to secure a player who fits Charles Lee’s gritty, defensive vision. Also, the move could be the spark that finally changes the franchise’s course.

Sometimes, the biggest leap forward only takes one risk with a better reward.