Charlotte Hornets: 5 reasons they make the playoffs in 2018-19

CHARLOTTE, NC - FEBRUARY 25: Teammates Nicolas Batum #5 and Kemba Walker #15 of the Charlotte Hornets react after a play against the Detroit Pistons during their game at Spectrum Center on February 25, 2018 in Charlotte, North Carolina. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images) /

6 of 6

NEW YORK, NY – NOVEMBER 07: Jeremy Lamb #3 of the Charlotte Hornets takes a shot against Doug McDermott #20 of the New York Knicks in the first half during their game at Madison Square Garden on November 7, 2017 in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Abbie Parr/Getty Images) /

Playing in the Eastern Conference

There is no question that one of the big reasons that the Hornets can return to the playoffs this upcoming season is because of the conference they are playing in. The conference is very top heavy with the Toronto Raptors, Boston Celtics and Philadelphia 76ers leading the way.

However, after those three it is anyone’s guess at how the rest of the playoff field will shake out. The caliber of teams is not on the same level as the Western Conference and with LeBron James heading to the LA Lakers, the Cleveland Cavs are no longer the force they used to be.

Next. Ranking Kemba Walker's 10 greatest games. dark

The Hornets certainly have the talent to compete with this second tier of teams in the Eastern Conference. If these other reasons play out the way they could, there is no reason not to think the Charlotte Hornets will be playing playoff basketball this upcoming season.

Home/Charlotte Hornets