Why this trade makes sense for the Charlotte Hornets
Devonte’ Graham has been a big part of the Hornets offensive over the years, but with them getting production from other players, it may be time to cut ties with Graham, especially since he is on an expiring contract.
Charlotte will not have much cap space next season and the big question they will have to ask themselves is if keeping Graham long-term gives them the best chance to contend in the Eastern Conference as opposed to going out in free agency and targeting other high-level players. Ultimately, the answer to this question is unknown, but if they want to explore other options in free agency, they will have to let the young guard go.
With LaMelo Ball and Terry Rozier in the backcourt, losing Graham would not be a huge loss for the Hornets, especially since they would be receiving Elfrid Payton in this deal with New York. Payton is in his 7th season in the NBA now and has been a really solid role player over the course of his career.
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His numbers will not blow you away and he is not going to go out every night and average high scoring numbers, but he does all the little things on both ends of the court to help his team win games. Elfrid Payton is a really solid floor general and could allow LaMelo Ball to be more aggressive offensively since he would not have to always be the facilitator for the Hornets.
Charlotte is on the verge of being a legit playoff team this season, but moving forward, they will need to continue accumulating young talent that can grow into something special. Getting a solid two-way guard in Elfrid Paytonm,along with two future draft picks, in exchange for Devonte’ Graham will not only keep the Hornets in playoff contention this season, but for years to come.
