Why The Charlotte Hornets Do The Deal

Sometimes, you have to give up luxuries in order to procure necessities. That’s as true in the NBA as it is anywhere else. 

The Hornets have surely enjoyed having a player as versatile as Washington. Putting him at the 5 allows them to play faster. It juices the offence, but Washington’s lower body strength and centre of gravity allow him to handle men who are very larger than him on the defensive end as well. 

He’s still no substitute for a real centre. The Hornets had a major problem with rim protection in 2021-22. Teams scored on the interior at will when they came to Buzz City. That won’t be the case with Myles Turner in town. 

Again, Turner is one of the best rim protectors in the NBA. Moreover, his ability to connect from distance means the Hornets can largely replicate their half-court sets featuring Washington in the middle.

LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Charlotte Hornets & Indiana Pacers Updates

Sure, they’ll cede some pace, but the game is won in the half-court. With Turner in the middle, teams won’t have the same red carpet leading them towards the basket. 

Are the Pacers getting back enough for such a valuable player here?