Why The Charlotte Hornets Do The Deal 

It does not. Obviously, this isn’t the type of massive deal that will change the Hornets’ fortunes. Acquiring Dwight Powell will not be seen as the reason Ball spent his career in Charlotte in hindsight. Still, it’s a step in the right direction. 

The Hornets need to improve their big-man rotation. Granted, they just drafted Mark Williams, but as a rookie, he’s unlikely to be ready to make starting-level contributions in year one. Moreover, they already roster Mason Plumlee. 

Powell, arguably, isn’t even a player of his caliber. Still, this is about his skillset. Powell is a better rim protector and a better rim runner than Plumlee, and those are the qualities the Hornets need most.

He’ll be the best pick-and-roll partner the team has given Ball to date. Following this deal, the Hornets will have a platoon of three big men who share the rotation. 

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Consider it a short-term measure. The Hornets could lean on Powell until they’re able to find an upgrade for him. Realistically, this deal is about getting Ball accustomed to playing with a player of his archetype. What does it do for the Mavericks?