It feels like Gordon Hayward’s time with the Charlotte Hornets is coming to an end as the action of the NBA offseason approaches.
There may be a mutual interest in a divorce between the player and the team here. The Hornets can no longer afford Hayward’s $30 million annual salary. They need to make room for Miles Bridges in Restricted Free Agency, and LaMelo Ball’s rookie extension the following season.
Meanwhile, rumors suggest that Hayward would like a change of scenery. That adds up. While the Hornets have an exciting future, Hayward must be thinking about playing for an NBA title now at 32.
That won’t necessarily be an easy ask. Most of the league’s true contenders have $30 million salary slots tied up in players who are, frankly, better than Hayward.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: 3 Perfect Trade Ideas Involving Hornets’ Gordon Hayward
Still, there are situations he could land in that would give him a better shot at competing than Charlotte.
Here are his best and worst trade destinations.