Why The Charlotte Hornets Do The Deal 

Some will say no. They’ll argue that the Hornets are likely to be the worst of these three teams in 2026.

Moreover, even if they’re not, it doesn’t really matter. They don’t get a chance to jump the Jazz here – they only get a chance to jump the Cavaliers. That’s nearly impossible, right? 

No. In today’s NBA, player movement is exceedingly active. Nobody can predict where the Cavs will be by 2026. It’s entirely possible that their contention window will have opened and shut already. 

Meanwhile, the Hornets avoid paying McDaniels the rookie extension he’ll be owed this summer.

NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Jalen McDaniels, Charlotte Hornets & Cleveland Cavaliers Updates

As one of the worst teams in the NBA, they probably ought to avoid committing money to this roster.

Should the Cavaliers be committing draft capital to a potential rental?