Why This Trade Would Benefit The Charlotte Hornets
No matter which one of the two it is, someone will have to be dealt in Charlotte. LaMelo Ball is in his first year and will not be on the table. His emergence is pushing the Hornets’ timeline forward faster than expected and there just isn’t a need for three guards.
The same cannot be said about Terry Rozier and Devonte’ Graham. If the Clippers came calling, Rozier could be the player on the move. This would open up camp room for the Hornets given the size of Rozier’s contract.
This would allow them to put more money into free agency and for other players moving forward. They would also get back a return of rotation ready players that can contribute immediately.
Luke Kennard has turned into a capable threat from the outside while Ivica Zubac has plenty of experience playing valuable minutes for a contending team. Adding more perimeter shooting and complementary playmaking from Kennard while gaining Zubac’s rim protection and finishing, the Hornets could achieve valuable improvement.
Charlotte still has a couple years before they are ready to compete but they are putting together an intriguing core players. They can continue this trend by sending away Rozier for a large return.