HORNETS 2025-26 Depth Chart
PROJECTED Starters:
PG: LAMELO BALL • SG: KON KNUEPPEL? (R) • SF: BRANDON MILLER
PF: MILES BRIDGES • C: MOUSSA DIABATE
KEY RESERVEs:
SG • Collin Sexton
G • Tre Mann
G/F • Josh Green
PG • Spencer Dinwiddie
F • Tidjane Salaün
C • Ryan Kalkbrenner (R)
LINEUP NOTES:
• There’s a legitimate camp battle for two starting spots: SG & C; Duke rookie Kon Knueppel could get the nod at shooting guard, though Coach Charles Lee could elect to go with Collin Sexton or Josh Green instead - Sexton is a veteran scorer but llacks the defensive upside next to LaMelo Ball in the backcourt. Brandon Miller could also slide down to the two, especially if (the more) defensive-minded Green is eventually favored.
At the five spot, it seems like Moussa Diabate, Mason Plumlee & rookie Ryan Kalkbrenner are all in the running. Diabate, while undersized at 6’9, offers the most familiarity with the rest of the lineup and has an active disposition that should translate well on both ends. In contrast, 7’1 rook Kalkbrenner was a prolific shot-blocker in college and could help set the tone as a rim protector. Plumlee is also an option but count on him to provide depth once the regular season hits.
***
• LaMelo Ball NEEDS to prove the ability to stay on the court - goal should be 70+ games.
• Mann v. Sexton (as the primary, second-unit shot creator) is an interesting development to pay attention to
• Does Charlotte have enough on the wing? Expect a monster season from B. Miller, but Green, Tidjane Salaun & rookies Kon Knueppel & Liam McNeeley must make a difference