Los Angeles Lakers receive: F Gordon Hayward, G Terry Rozier
Charlotte Hornets Receive: G Russell Westbrook, 2027 First-Round Pick (LAL)
OK, fine. Arguably, this trade isn’t exactly fresh. It just makes too much sense not to include in a piece about Russell Westbrook trades.
The Charlotte Hornets badly need to clear their books. They’ll likely be matching any offer Miles Bridges receives in Restricted Free Agency this summer. They’ll certainly be extending LaMelo Ball’s rookie contract after that. Something is going to have to give.
This deal offers a lot of help in that department. Gordon Hayward is on the payroll for $30 million for two more seasons. Terry Rozier is due $21.4 million in each of the next four. The Hornets cannot afford either.
The Lakers could sure use them. In fact, it would be comfortably worth the price of a first-round pick to acquire them. This deal makes too much sense for both sides: it should happen this summer.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Lakers Insider Doesn’t Hold Back About Russell Westbrook
The Hornets would probably let Westbrook play too if he’s willing to accept a sixth-man role. Michael Jordan is a prominent stakeholder in the team, and he’s always had an affinity for the point guard.
