NBA Rumors: 3 bold predictions for Charlotte Hornets' 2021 NBA off-season

#2 The Charlotte Hornets will pursue an elite rim protector

New York Knicks' Nerlens Noel, right, blocks a shot put up by Atlanta Hawks' John Collins,

The Charlotte Hornets struggled on defense during the 2020-21 NBA season. They finished 18th in defensive rating and were one of the league's worst perimeter defenders. To help improve their defensive rating in the new season, the Hornets need to pursue an elite rim protector.

Cody Zeller and Bismack Biyombo were average at best defending the basket. Moreso, the Charlotte Hornets have acquired Mason Plumlee, which would make their return unlikely as they are headed to unrestricted free agency. To further beef up their defense, the Charlotte Hornets could pursue Nerlens Noel or Richaun Holmes in free agency.

AP Source: Confirming the report from @wojespn that the Charlotte Hornets have acquired center Mason Plumlee and the No. 37 pick from Detroit. The Hornets gave up the No. 57 pick.

— Steve Reed (@SteveReedAP) July 30, 2021

If they are looking to explore trade routes, they could pursue Myles Turner. Rumors suggest the big man might be on the Indiana Pacers' trade block this offseason. If the Charlotte Hornets play their cards right, they could land him.

The acquisition of any of these players will bolster their defense, and by a significant margin. His presence in the paint will allow their defense to put more pressure on the perimeter as they are guaranteed a top shot blocker is behind.

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#3 The Hornets will offer Miles Bridges an extension

Miles Bridges #0 of the Charlotte Hornets

Miles Bridges is one of the Charlotte Hornets' most notable extension-eligible players. He has proven to the franchise that he is a talent they need to hold on to.

Bridges is eligible for a rookie five-year $168 million rookie contract extension. It would pay the Charlotte Hornets to seal the deal now as their commitment might get higher if they allow it dally.

.... "ESPN's Brian Windhorst reported Tuesday that the Hornets 'are believed to be interested in extending Terry Rozier and Miles Bridges, plus need to sign a starting center, all of which could squeeze their finances.'"

— Tommy Beer (@TommyBeer) July 29, 2021

The 2020-21 season was his best so far as he became a more efficient scorer, recording 50.3 percent from the field and shooting 40 percent from three-point range. Overall, the 22-year-old showed improvements in all areas of his game and is definitely a keeper.

If the Charlotte Hornets agree on a deal with Bridges this offseason, they stand a good chance of making the playoffs. He is very effective on offense and has partnered well with Hayward and Ball so far. If the trio spend more time on the court, they will provide the Hornets with an unstoppable offensive unit.