The Charlotte Hornets are close to a deal with Mitch Kupchak for him to become their next general manager and president of basketball operations.

The two sides have made substantial progress on a contract.

Kupchak has been the focus of owner Michael Jordan's search process to replace ex-GM Rich Cho, whose contract wasn't renewed.

Buzz Peterson will remain with the team but Kupchak will add his own personnel to the front office.

Steve Clifford and Kupchak have a relationship from their time together with the Lakers.

Kupchak was fired as general manager of the LAkers in 2017.