Why The Charlotte Hornets Should Do It
Trading the No. 3 pick in a draft that has three consensus top prospects who reside above the fray is a tough sell.
Perhaps the Hornets could be convinced to do this is exchange for Turner if they’ve zeroed in on one player they like at No. 3, who could be off the board.
If Charlotte is mainly interested in LaMelo Ball or Anthony Edwards, it could make sense to trade this pick (assuming Ball and Edwards are the top two picks in some order).
But the Hornets need a big man, and if James Wiseman is available at No. 3, Charlotte could simply remain at No. 3 and select him if he’s on the board.
If Charlotte is unwilling to part with the No. 3 pick, the Hornets have a first rounder in 2021 they could offer, but it probably wouldn’t hold the same weight for Indiana.
The Hornets should pursue the acquisition of Turner because he’d fill arguably their biggest need. Charlotte needs a talented big man who can defend and protect the rim, and Turner could step in immediately.
