Predicting the Future of Charlotte's Unrestricted Free Agents

Where will Kelly Oubre, Dennis Smith, and Svi Mykhailiuk go?

This will arguably be the most important offseason in Charlotte Hornets franchise history. 

They have the fourth-best odds of landing Victor Wembanyama in the draft, there's still a decision to be made on Miles Bridges, and they have to do everything they can to keep LaMelo Ball happy which means putting together a competitive roster.

Free agency doesn't start until July 6th but it's never too early to predict what the Hornets will do. We'll do another prediction after the draft but for now, this is how I see the Hornets handling their own free agents.

G Dennis Smith Jr. (Non-Bird)

Prediction: Re-sign with Hornets.

The Hornets' defense improved drastically as the season grew older and much of that can be attributed to the contributions of Dennis Smith Jr., who was an absolute menace. He fits the DNA of a Steve Clifford backup guard almost perfectly. He gives maximum effort on the defensive end but also has the ability to produce points as well. 

G Svi Mykhailiuk (Non-Bird)

Prediction: Let walk.

Mykhailiuk was a pleasant surprise down the stretch for the Hornets. At times, he was the primary scorer due to the number of players sidelined with injuries. There's no doubt that Svi deserves another NBA contract but with Charlotte likely ending up in a position to take an off-ball guard in the draft, there's just simply no room for him on the roster.

G/F Kelly Oubre Jr. (Early Bird)

Prediction: Let walk.

Kelly would like to return to Charlotte and it seems like the Hornets would love to have him back as well. However, it feels like Charlotte will lean toward spending its money elsewhere which will open up more playing time for Bryce McGowens, who had a strong rookie season. Oubre is an incredible leader and someone the team can look to in times of adversity but I don't get the feeling the Hornets will be willing to pay the number Oubre deserves.

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