The first full weekend of the NBA playoffs are already in the books, leaving a few lasting memories and sparking intrigue surrounding the remainder of each opening-round series.

Around here, that also usually means one thing: Another disappointing campaign by Charlotte’s pro basketball team is finally in the rearview mirror.

While 16 teams begin chasing the Larry O’Brien Trophy, the Charlotte Hornets are already in offseason mode, attempting to piece together a strategic puzzle that starts with landing a new head coach. Who will guide the Hornets next is among the flurry of swirling questions surrounding the franchise’s direction and prospective outlook heading into 2024-25.

In this latest mailbag, we answer reader queries about whether the Hornets are ready to move on from star point guard LaMelo Ball, Miles Bridges’ future, qualities to look for in the next coach and more.

Hornets’ offseason approach

Danny asks on X: Which do you think is more likely for the Hornets’ front office this offseason? Taking a conservative approach and sticking with this current roster or adding real supporting pieces to the team through trades/free agency?

Somewhere in between if they’re smart. This team isn’t good enough yet to make overly aggressive moves and shake up a roster that isn’t ready to contend. But the team’s brass also can’t just sit back status quo and say, ‘We were injured for two seasons and we can just bring back the same crop of guys at a piece here or there. I think we’ll be OK.’

They need to change things somewhat. But that doesn’t mean doing something overly drastic. That doesn’t make much sense.. There has to be some kind of fine balance and between being aggressive. Because sitting back and doing nothing won’t cut it for a franchise in need of a boost.

LaMelo Ball

Jay Torres asks on X: Are the Hornets ready to move from LaMelo?

...continued

©2024 The Charlotte Observer. Visit at charlotteobserver.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.