Charlotte Hornets Receive: F/C John Collins, G/F Kevin Huerter

Atlanta Hawks Receive: F Gordon Hayward, F/C P.J. Washington, 2022 First-Round Pick (via NOP)

This trade was put together by Greg Swartz over at Bleacher Report. He put together deals to replace the most disappointing starters around the league. In this scenario, the Charlotte Hornets and Atlanta Hawks both shake things up.

Hawks general manager Travis Schlenk recently discussed how he regretted not making bigger moves last season. After the team advanced to the Eastern Conference Finals, they decided to run things back. The results weren’t nearly as positive.

So, they shake things up by unloading one of the big contracts they handed out last offseason to John Collins. Kevin Huerter has a rookie extension kicking in at the start of the 2022-23 season as well, so they are moving on from a long of long-term money in this deal to get some financial flexibility.

Heading out of Charlotte is Gordon Hayward, who remains a productive player but cannot stay healthy enough to contribute. The Butler product has played more than 52 games only once in the last five seasons.

LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: 3 Targets For Charlotte Hornets To Pursue With Gordon Hayward Trade

Joining Hayward in Atlanta is P.J. Washington, who is eligible for a rookie extension this offseason himself. But, even his highest contract demands are going to be significantly less than what Collins signed for. The Hawks are also receiving a first-round pick in the 2022 NBA Draft via the New Orleans Pelicans.

How does this deal impact each team? Let’s take a look at it from both of their perspectives starting with the Hornets.