The Charlotte Hornets had a rough outing last season. They ended with a brutal 21-61 record and sat 13th in the Eastern Conference. It’s clear they need some major changes. While it’s not a blockbuster move, the Hornets made some noise by scooping up Harry Giles III from the Lakers on a one-year deal, according to Shams Charania. “Free agent center Harry Giles has agreed to a one-year deal with the Charlotte Hornets.” The signing might not be big for everyone, but it got some attention when Jayson Tatum gave this trade a shout-out on his Instagram story.
With his move to the Hornets, Harry Giles has a solid shot at turning his career around and fighting for that opening day roster spot. But it won’t be easy—he’s got some stiff competition in Mark Williams, Nick Richards, and Taj Gibson. They all are believed to have the upper hand heading into training camp. Giles has had a tough time finding his groove in the NBA, since getting drafted 20th overall in 2017. As a result, this opportunity is huge for him. Fans really hope he can find his role and make waves in Charlotte.
Free agent center Harry Giles has agreed to a one-year deal with the Charlotte Hornets, his agent Daniel Hazan of Hazan Sports Management told @TheAthletic. The Duke alum and North Carolina native returns home for a chance to compete for a roster spot with the Hornets. pic.twitter.com/qAGnePDZPL
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) September 22, 2024
With the signing of Giles, the heat’s on Jeff Peterson, the executive Vice President of the Hornets. If Giles can step up and grab a roster spot, it’ll boost Peterson’s credibility big time. But if Giles flops, that’s gonna raise some eyebrows about Peterson’s player evaluations and decision-making. It’s a tightrope walk for him. Hence, a lot depends on this, both emotionally for him and for the team as they aim to rebuild.
Let’s dive into the fierce competition heating up among the four centers gunning for that prized opening day roster spot—this ain’t just a battle; it’s a high-stakes showdown for a shot at redemption and a chance to show what they’ve really got in the league.
Can Giles secure the opening-day roster spot with the Hornets?
But it won’t be easy for him, as Nick Richards and Mark Williams are tough competition. Richards is coming off an injury and is expected to be the primary backup. He put up solid numbers last season—over 9 points, 8 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks in 26.3 minutes. He’s not someone to underestimate.
Then there’s Mark Williams. He had a tough season too, only playing 19 games due to a back injury. But when he played, he averaged over 12 points, 9 rebounds, and 1 steal in 26.7 minutes. That’s why he saw more court time than Richards. If he’s fully recovered, it’s hard to see Giles taking the roster spot from him. What do you think of Giles’ chances?
Debate
Did the Hornets make a mistake by letting a former Lakers star dictate their contract decisions?