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Fans are invited to join The Hornets Roundtable for discussion and fan community engagement surrounding the draft.

Steinbach is projected to play behind the starting center but offers flexibility for the Hornets’ rotation next season.

The Hornets’ free-agent emphasis centers on retaining guard Coby White to complement Steinbach, creating guard depth behind Ball and Knueppel.

The Charlotte Hornets drafted Hannes Steinbach at No. 14, a 6-foot-10 German forward-center who played one season at Washington, known for strong rebounding and interior defense.

During his two seasons at Texas Tech, Anderson earned multiple All-America honors and was an All-Big 12 First Team selection as a sophomore after averaging 18.5 points, 7.4 assists, 3.3 three-pointers and 1.5 steals per game in the 2025-26 season.

He also shot 34% from three-point range, indicating outside shooting potential.

Analysts framed the pick as aligned with insider expectations and Charlotte’s strategic goals, while noting potential defensive limitations and the need for development to maximize fit.

The pick adds an intriguing frontcourt option amid questions about Miles Bridges’ contract status, Brandon Miller’s health, and Diabaté’s role within the rotation.

Steinbach could be integrated as a future center/forward option behind Moussa Diabaté, with rotational minutes anticipated in the coming season.

Analyst Mike Lacett graded the pick as a solid B+, valuing Steinbach for backup guard depth and shooting potential, with or without Coby White.

The article notes ancillary draft slides and trade rumors from other teams, but Steinbach’s selection remains the focal point.