In anticipation of the upcoming training camp, the Charlotte Hornets have finalized a significant roster adjustment, welcoming guard Marcus Garrett while simultaneously releasing forward Brandon Slater. This strategic move highlights the team's ongoing efforts to refine its lineup, emphasizing a strengthened backcourt and enhanced defensive capabilities.
Marcus Garrett, a 26-year-old guard, brings a valuable defensive versatility to the Charlotte roster. Following a prior brief engagement with the Miami Heat during the 2021–22 season, Garrett demonstrated a resurgence in performance over the past year. He made four appearances for the Hornets, where he notably contributed an average of 7.0 points, 3.3 assists, and 1.5 rebounds across 19.8 minutes of play. His defensive tenacity and playmaking skills are expected to be a key asset for the team.
Before his return to the main squad, Garrett spent the majority of the 2024–25 season with the Greensboro Swarm, Charlotte's G League affiliate. During his 27 games there, the former Kansas standout posted impressive averages of 9.4 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 3.9 assists, all while maintaining an efficient 44.1 percent shooting from the field. This period in the G League allowed him to hone his skills and prove his readiness for the NBA level once more.
The Hornets' decision to bring Garrett into the fold is a calculated move to reinforce their guard rotation, which currently features prominent players like LaMelo Ball, Collin Sexton, and Nick Smith Jr. Furthermore, Garrett's presence is expected to provide crucial depth behind existing players such as Josh Green and Spencer Dinwiddie. This strategic addition offers head coach Charles Lee greater flexibility in managing the team's backcourt resources and defensive schemes.
The counterbalancing action involved the release of Brandon Slater, a 26-year-old forward, merely a day after his initial signing by the team. Slater, a Villanova alum, has accumulated professional experience in both the G League and Greek leagues since going undrafted in 2023. His recent performance for Lavrio Megabolt saw him average 7.4 points per game, demonstrating his potential as a '3-and-D' forward, capable of both scoring and defending.
Slater's departure from the team is attributed to the Hornets' existing depth in the wing position. With players such as Miles Bridges, Liam McNeeley, and Moussa Diabaté already occupying key roles, and rookies Kon Knueppel and Sion James also vying for spots, the organization ultimately prioritized strengthening its backcourt. This decision reflects a clear strategic direction as the team gears up for the new season.
The Charlotte Hornets have concluded a significant roster adjustment by bringing in Marcus Garrett, a guard known for his defensive capabilities, while simultaneously waiving Brandon Slater. This move, executed prior to training camp, signifies the team's commitment to enhancing its backcourt and defensive options. Garrett's G League performance highlighted his readiness, making him a valuable addition to complement the existing guard talent and provide strategic flexibility for head coach Charles Lee. The decision to release Slater underscores the team's preference for backcourt reinforcement given the current depth on the wing.
