I also think it's too early to expect Davis to alter the franchise. Long term, he absolutely can. This year? I'm not sure. While he'll be in early contention for Rookie of the Year honors due to draft position and playing time, I think Davis will struggle with NBA bigs. Davis will struggle to hold position against NBA centers on both ends of the floor. And if New Orleans' guards can't get the ball to Davis in good position in the post, his offensive limitations will be glaring.

As a side note, it's still baffling the way players seem to fail to understand how restricted free agency works. It's a huge issue, likely stemming from agents not willing to risk waiting a season when a max offer is already on the table. Still, if agents aren't educating their clients on how these things work, you have to wonder why players are sticking with them.

All in all, didn't last season prove that another down year might be for the best? New Orleans will have plenty of opportunity to play and develop their young stars, and adding another lotto pick next year will only help in the long run. The future is once again bright for the Hornets, but I predict another season of growth and losses.