Hornets Could Be the Surprise of the NBA in 2026

News ArticlePublishedAug 28, 2026 at 06:03 PM EDTThe Charlotte Hornets could be one of the NBA's more exciting teams heading into the new season, especially if they can take the kind of step forward that has been projected for them.Charlotte has been included in an ESPN list among the teams that could make a major leap this season, giving the franchise a chance to change the perception surrounding it. The Hornets aren't being projected to make the biggest jump in the league, but they're still getting looks as a possible surprise. That alone should make 2026-27 a hopeful season in Charlotte.Sports news: Wizards and AJ Dybantsa Could Have a Breakout Year...The Hornets received 10 points in ESPN's ranking of the teams most likely to make a major leap, tying them with the Portland Trail Blazer