Charlotte Hornets Receive: Russell Westbrook, 2026 First-Round Pick (LAL), 2027 First-Round Pick (Swap – LAL)
Brooklyn Nets Receive: F Gordon Hayward, G Terry Rozier, 2029 First-Round Pick (LAL)
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: G Kyrie Irving
If the Brooklyn Nets are thinking about winning games in 2022-23, this is a much better return for them.
Granted, neither Rozier nor Hayward is as purely talented as Irving. On the other hand, each is more dependable. Furthermore, they’re both quality NBA players in their own rights. The Nets get considerably deeper after this deal.
Hayward is a floor-spacing wing who can also be an effective on-ball playmaker. Rozier is a talented combo guard with a strong driving game and reasonable floor-spacing in his own right. If the Nets do keep Durant and Ben Simmons, they’ll remain a contender following this deal.
Meanwhile, the Hornets should be happy to shed the salaries of two veterans who are off their timeline. Westbrook’s expiring contract, a first-round pick, and a swap is a nice haul for two non-star veterans.
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With that said, if the Nets would like to split the difference in terms of incoming players and draft capital, this next trade could accomplish that.
