The Charlotte Hornets and Cleveland Cavaliers haven’t had any meaningful trade discussions centered around PJ Washington, according to NBA insider Chris Fedor of Cleveland.com. Washington is currently a restricted NBA free agent.
“Sources say even though Cleveland has expressed interest in acquiring Washington, and there’s a belief it is lurking, there haven’t been any extensive, detailed or meaningful trade discussions with Charlotte at this point,” Fedor wrote.
Washington appeared in 73 games for the Hornets last season. He averaged 15.7 points, 4.9 rebounds and 2.4 assists while shooting 44.4% from the field, 34.8% from beyond the arc and 73.0% from the free-throw line.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: PJ Washington, Cleveland Cavaliers & Charlotte Hornets Updates
The Hornets drafted Washington with the 12th overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft out of Kentucky. The forward has career NBA averages of 12.9 points, 5.5 boards and 2.3 assists in 260 NBA games. He may have to play on the Hornets’ qualifying offer and enter unrestricted free agency next summer unless the Cavaliers — or another team — gives him an offer sheet.
“Sources say the 24-year-old Washington, who is a restricted free agent, is hoping for a contract around $20 million annually,” Fedor wrote. “The Hornets have reportedly been unwilling to give Washington the long-term contract he is seeking, and the two sides are currently in a contract stalemate. If a financial deal can’t be reached, with Charlotte unwilling to budge on its stance or Washington agreeing to a shorter deal for less money, the Hornets’ options aren’t very appealing.”
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: PJ Washington, Cleveland Cavaliers & Charlotte Hornets Updates
The Cavaliers lost to the New York Knicks in the first round of the 2023 NBA playoffs in five games. Meanwhile, the Hornets won only 27 games last season.
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