Charlotte Hornets X-Factor For The 2025-26 Season - Collin Sexton

The last time the Charlotte Hornets qualified for the postseason was ten years ago, and in that time, they have posted just one winning season. After a disastrous 19-63 record last year, Hornets fans are likely in for another long season. However, management did make some significant moves via trade and the draft that should at least put the team on the right path, one that could potentially lead to competing for the No. 10 seed and the final play-in spot.

One of those key acquisitions was trading for Jusuf Nurkić from the Utah Jazz in exchange for combo guard Collin Sexton. After three straight seasons of declining numbers in the win column, the Hornets, who also have the league's longest playoff drought, are in desperate need of stability and production. The "Young Bull" brings experience and a scoring punch to a young core, with a reliable three-point shot (career average of 38.7%) and a drive-and-finish mentality.

With young building blocks LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller returning from season-ending injuries that severely impacted the Hornets last year, the addition of key veterans like Sexton helps to balance Coach Charles Lee's roster.

What makes Sexton an X-factor for the Hornets is his versatility. Whether scoring without disrupting the offensive flow, hitting open shots consistently, or driving to the basket, Sexton can play with or without the ball. Whether starting alongside Ball and Miller or coming off the bench to lead the second unit, Sexton offers Charlotte lineup flexibility and insurance in the backcourt for two players who struggled to remain healthy last year, especially Ball, who has only played 47, 22, and 36 games in the past three seasons.

The question as to whether Sexton should be part of the starting unit or serve as the first man off the bench highlights his value to the Hornets’ roster. A seven-year vet who has started 335 of 407 games, Sexton's experience and scoring touch make a strong case to be part of the starting core, but his presence off the bench as instant offense would give the Hornets better depth. Regardless of how he is used, Sexton will have a positive impact on both Charlotte's up-tempo style of play and the locker room.

Entering a contract year, Sexton has plenty of motivation to prove his worth. If the 6-foot-3 guard can help guide the Hornets toward a significant record improvement after four seasons in Cleveland and three with the Jazz, he could prove to be one of the league’s most impactful offseason acquisitions.