Why The Charlotte Hornets Do The Deal 

That isn’t necessarily the case for the Hornets. 

With that said, we were simplifying a little when we said this deal was all about the future for the Hornets. In fact, their motivation to get involved here is two-pronged. It should help them in the present and the future. 

In the present, Tobias Harris makes a nice replacement for the suspended Miles Bridges. He’s not in the same conversation as a pure athlete, but he’s a more reliable floor-spacer. Functionally, he’ll be able to take his spot in the rotation. 

On the other hand, the young Hornets take a flier on 19-year-old Jaden Springer here in addition to netting a first-round pick.

LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Charlotte Hornets & Philadelphia 76ers Updates

Sure, it’s protected – the Sixers aren’t upgrading enough to cede an unprotected, distance first-rounder here. Still, it’s an asset for a team that’s somewhere between competitive and rebuilding. 

That should be motivation enough for the Hornets to get this one done.