Charles

Lee

While the Hornets missed out on a playoff berth in Lee’s second season at the helm, the team was much-improved, especially after the calendar flipped to 2026. From January 3 onward, Charlotte went 33-15, finishing the regular season with a 44-38 record. Kon Knueppel finished second in Rookie of the Year voting, while multiple players made notable strides, including LaMelo Ball.

Lee has spent the past 12 years coaching in the NBA after playing professionally overseas for a few seasons. Lee spent time on Mike Budenholzer’s staff in both Atlanta and Milwaukee, and he is currently the top assistant coach for Boston. When the Celtics’ postseason run ends, Lee’s focus will shift to helping Charlotte through their rebuild.