Why The Charlotte Hornets Do The Deal 

The Hornets do this deal to tank. With that said, if there’s a problem here, it’s the acquisition of Powell. 

He may not be a game-altering talent, but Powell is a solid rim-running, rim-protecting big man. Moreover, he’s exactly what the Hornets need – or, depending on your point of view, don’t need. 

That’s easy to sort out later. If Powell really improves the Hornets that much, maybe they don’t need to tank! Alternatively, if he doesn’t make a difference, that’s arguably even better. In the event that he nudges them toward the middle of the pack, they can simply shut him down.

For what it’s worth, that will be easier to justify than shutting down Hayward at his price point. 

LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Gordon Hayward, Charlotte Hornets & Dallas Mavericks Updates

Meanwhile, the Hornets get a first-round pick for their troubles as well. Even if they fail to execute a tank job, that improves their future outlook. After all, who knows? 

The 2025 draft could feature the next Victor Wembanyama.